Advanced cancer: a mind-body-spirit approach to life and living

Abstract

Objectives: To present the nursing theory of Modeling and Role Modeling as a holistic theoretical basis for identifying needs, planning and implementing care and services, and measuring and enhancing outcomes of programs and interventions to meet the needs of people living with advanced cancer.

Data sources: Published books and journal articles, web resources, newspapers and current events magazines, and trade publications.

Conclusion: The growing number of people living with advanced cancer has numerous unique, multi-dimensional, and interrelated needs that are underexplored, generally unmet, and require a holistic approach to be adequately addressed.

Implications for nursing practice: Oncology nurses in clinical practice and research settings must be informed, aware of and prepared to assess and intervene to address the needs of the rapidly emerging subpopulation of cancer survivors. Using a holistic nursing theory promotes our understanding of human responses to illness and provides a way to holistically approach health, wellness, and healing among people living with advanced cancer.