Do you need more information about your treatment?
Feeling uncertain or confused about your treatment can be a source of distress and this can impact on longer term outcomes. It is important to consider whether you feel satisfied with your understanding of your treatment. If you feel unsatisfied, you may benefit from further information about your treatment. Discuss any needs you have for further information with the healthcare professionals involved in your care.
Further information about treatment can help improve understanding, support informed decision-making and help with preparing psychologically for treatment. Seeking information helps some people feel in control of the aspects of their care over which they have control. However, others may find further information overwhelming and distraction can be more helpful. It is important to know whether you need further information and if seeking such information feels uncomfortable, perhaps someone else such as a family member or friend could support you with this.
Research suggests that it is important for people to understand what will happen during treatment, when it will happen and how it will happen. Knowing what to expect such as what the treatment may feel like, possible sensations and side-effects can help with psychological preparation. Likewise, it is also important to have a sense of what to expect following treatment. An awareness of the challenges you may face following treatment is likely to enhance your perceived ability to manage such challenges.
Managing hospital appointments
During hospital appointments it can be difficult to process the complex information you may hear about your treatment. Hospital appointments can be stressful and this can make it more difficult to think clearly, process and remember new information. After your appointment, you may be left with unanswered questions. It is important to check with your healthcare professional who you can contact if you have any questions about your care or treatment between appointments.
Some people find it helps to bring a family member or friend to appointments who can provide support in whatever way feels helpful. It can be useful to keep a journal or a record of your appointments that you can refer back to if needed. Some people find it helpful to prepare for an appointment by bringing written questions to ask their healthcare professional about their care.
Also in this section
Further support and help:
The advice on these pages is designed to help you prepare for the treatment ahead and support you through to recovery.
If you need further advice and support please discuss this with your key worker or healthcare professional.
- Macmillan Cancer Support:
0808 808 00 00 - Maggie’s Cardiff:
029 2240 8024 - Tenovus Cancer Care:
0808 808 1010
