title: Supportive care needs of cancer patients: A literature review.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This review of the research literature explored the supportive care needs of cancer patients of varying ages and genders at varying stages of cancer treatment.
  
  
  METHODS
  We conducted a search of online databases of peer-reviewed studies published in the English language between 2009 and 2014.
  
  
  RESULTS
  This paper reviews research studies that explored the supportive care needs of cancer patients through focus groups, surveys, and interviews. The samples addressed varied in age, ethnicity, and gender.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  One major need identified was the requirement of informational support. Other essential needs included emotional, spiritual, and financial support. Supportive care can be administered in various ways—for example, by religious communities or caregivers as well as providers. However, healthcare providers must recognize the supportive care needs of their patients and incorporate effective resources and interventions into treatment plans.
authors.affiliation: Cone Health,Greensboro,North Carolina.
authors.forename: Ayana
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.affiliation: School of Nursing, The University of North Carolina,Greensboro,North Carolina.
authors.forename: Yolanda M
authors.initials: YM
authors.lastname: Hyde
authors.affiliation: Cone Health,Greensboro,North Carolina.
authors.forename: Deb
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Stanford
mesh_terms: D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology*; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D020380:Needs Assessment; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D012944:Social Support
keywords: Cancer patients; Review of research; Supportive care needs