Simple kindnesses can help to diffuse negative emotions that are associated with cancer diagnosis and treatment—and may even help to improve patients’ outcomes.
BY Donna Clark
PUBLISHED February 25, 2019
Donna Clark, RN, BSN, OCN, is a certified, well-seasoned, oncology nurse, but was new to role of oncology patient when she was diagnosed in 2014 with advanced endometrial cancer, now in remission. This "dual citizenship" has deepened her empathy and resolve to inspire nurses and their oncology patients. She believes God charted her course as a youngster, including caring for both parents who had cancer. As a clinic nurse at Mitchell Cancer Institute in Fairhope, Alabama, she is also active in the Oncology Nursing Society as a leader in her local NW FLA ONS Chapter. Follow Donna on Twitter @lynnm7417
Texas A&M University Professor Thomas Berry and his team have extensively researched how the simple basic acts of kindness are found to help patients deal effectively with their cancer journey. The wonders of high-tech cancer care are best complemented by the humanity of high-touch care. Simple kindnesses can help to diffuse negative emotions that are associated with cancer diagnosis and treatment—and may even help to improve patients’ outcomes.Kindness can be a life vest in a sea of suffering. Empathetic and generous behaviors can be meaningful, not only to patients and families, but to clinicians and other staff as well. Research demonstrates that compassion for others buffers stress. The nurturing environment created by extending kindness to others, including coworkers, improves provider well-being and can be a potent antidote to physical and emotional exhaustion and burnout.
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