Keywords

cancer survivorship, distress management, holistic care, spiritual distress, spirituality

 

Authors

  1. Nolan, Timiya S. PhD, APRN-CNP, ANP-BC
  2. Browning, Kristine PhD, APRN-CNP
  3. Vo, Jacqueline B. PhD, RN, FAANP
  4. Meadows, Rachel J. MPH
  5. Paxton, Raheem J. PhD

Abstract

ABSTRACT: More than 67% of people diagnosed with cancer in the United States are alive five years after receiving the diagnosis; but even if they are cancer free, the effects of the disease and its treatment will remain with them for the rest of their lives. Distress, which can be of a psychological, social, physical, or spiritual nature, is common among cancer survivors. Spiritual distress is a broad concept that is not necessarily associated with any specific religious beliefs, practices, or affiliations. Both religious and nonreligious people may have a strong sense of spirituality and may experience spiritual distress at various points throughout cancer survivorship. But clinicians often neglect to explore the spiritual components of distress, and despite the well-established association between spiritual well-being and quality of life, few of the instruments designed to assess the care needs of cancer survivors address spiritual needs. Through a composite clinical case, this article illustrates how nurses can incorporate into practice evidence-based recommendations for assessing and managing spiritual distress in cancer survivors.