title: Caring for a patient with a fungating malignant lesion in a hospice setting: reflecting on practice.
abstract: This article attempts to demonstrate the process of using experiential learning to reflect on nursing practice. This will be discussed in relation to the Atkins and Murphy's model of reflection. A case study will be used to demonstrate the complex issues of symptom management and the implications for improving and maintaining a consistent quality of holistic care within a hospice. The case of 'Sylvia', a 68-year-old woman with a diagnosis of incurable cancer, will be discussed in relation to the management of a fungating malignant lesion, pain management, the control of malodour, and maintaining dignified and respectful care and optimizing self-esteem and quality of life.
authors.affiliation: Halton Haven Hospice, Runcorn, UK. mohawthorn@gmail.com
authors.forename: Maureen
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Hawthorn
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D002295:Carcinoma, Transitional Cell / Q000150:complications / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006694:Holistic Health; D006801:Humans; D007680:Kidney Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D016294:Models, Nursing; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D009812:Odorants; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000379:methods* / Q000523:psychology; D012006:Rectovaginal Fistula / Q000209:etiology; D012649:Self Concept; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000209:etiology; D013850:Thinking