Psychosocial Nursing in Radiotherapy Cancer Wards in Finland

Abstract. In this study the specialized nurses, nurse generalists and practical nurses working in radiotherapy cancer wards in Finland are estimating their capabilities for responding to the psychosocial needs of cancer patients. The methods they use to respond to their patients and the results achieved are also estimated. Details were also elicited of the barriers to the provision of high standard nursing which these people perceived. The length of education correlated significantly with the estimated capabilities of nursing personnel to meet the psychosocial needs of the cancer patients. The practical nurses estimated their capabilities to be in all respects at a lower level than did the nurse generalists and specialized nurses.