TURKISH JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2011 , Vol 26 , Num 3
Care of the cancer patient in the terminal period
İkbal ÇAVDAR
İstanbul Üniversitesi Hemşirelik Fakültesi, İstanbul The terminal period is defined as the period prior to death, during which, in the face of cancer and increasing physical restriction, comprehensive care continues, with the aims of improving and protecting the patient's life quality. Nurses are responsible for meeting the needs of the patient. Nurses who care for patients suffering from a fatal disease and their families must be aware of reactions, and help the patients and their families during the death process. This article focuses on the needs of patients in the terminal period, which are physiological, psychological, spiritual, and sexual. Keywords : Cancer; terminal period; death