Find out what the person knows about their condition without assuming a level of knowledge. Provide them with the opportunity to discuss tests and treatment options in a private environment, with the support of family members or carers (as appropriate), and give them time to make an informed choice. [2011]
Ensure that a lung cancer clinical nurse specialist is available at all stages of care to support people and (as appropriate) their family members or carers. [2011]
Offer accurate and easy-to-understand information to people and their family members or carers (as appropriate). Explain the tests and treatment options, including potential survival benefits, side effects and effect on symptoms. [2011]
Consider tailor-made decision aids to help people to:
understand the probable outcomes of treatment options
think about the personal value they place on benefits versus harms of treatment options
feel supported in decision making
move through the steps towards making a decision
take part in decisions about their healthcare. [2011]
Offer people a record of all discussions that have taken place with them and a copy of any correspondence with other healthcare professionals. Ensure all communications are worded in such a way to assist understanding. [2011]
Respect the person's choice if they do not wish to confront future issues. [2011]
Avoid giving people unexpected bad news in writing. Only give unexpected bad news by phone in exceptional circumstances. [2011]
Offer to discuss end-of-life care with the person sensitively and when appropriate. Wherever possible, avoid leaving this discussion until the terminal stages of the illness. [2011]
Document discussions with the person about end-of-life care. In particular, document:
their specific concerns
their understanding of their illness and its prognosis
important values or personal goals for care
their preferences for the types of care or treatment that may be beneficial in the future and their availability. [2011]
Share information between healthcare professionals about:
any problems the person has
the management plan
what the person has been told
what the person has understood (if possible)
the involvement of other agencies
any advance decision made by the person. [2011]