Psychological Responses of Patients Receiving a Diagnosis of Adenocarcinoma

Abstract

In some health organizations, the patients kept ignored in relation to the true nature of their disease, the risks involved, and their prognosis. While in some cases a doctor and a nurse may still withhold information concerning certain details that might threaten the recovery of a patient who is unstable, nervous, or seriously depressed. Nowadays, the sharing of information is governed by the principle of autonomy that is, patients themselves take decisions on everything concerning their disease and must confirm their knowledge and acceptance of any tests or treatments that carry risks by signing an informed consent form Guerra-Tapia [1]. Therefore, before starting to discuss the case of Mr. X and how to inform him with his new diagnosis, more emphasis should be done to understand the definition of what we call it as “bad news”. Buckman (1984) [2], was the first person to define the bad news as “any information likely to alter drastically a patient’s view of his or her future” [3]. Although those information are as it was mentioned in the definition will altered Mr. X expectations for his future, he should be informed about his condition. Delivering unfavorable information is important for many reasons. Giving him the truthful and correct information about his condition can help him make informed choices about his treatment and take responsibility for his care, rise his understanding and awareness of his condition and support him to make appropriate plans for his future. Additionally, this practice will prevent him from undertaking heavy treatment and facilitate end-of-life care planning [4]. Mr. X should know everything he needs in order to participate in diagnostic and therapeutic decisions concerning his own disease. As a long term outcome, Mr. X will perceive the healthcare team as honest; he will experience an increase in his satisfaction, compliance, and coping mechanisms. Moreover, and in general, after a person’s death, memories of care at the end of life will remain with those who grieve the loss and can affect their perception of the facility, healthcare Case Report