You remember your conversation with Mr. M’s oncologist and that Mr. M has just learned that his cancer has progressed, no additional chemotherapies are available and that referral to hospice was recommended. You speculate that Mr. M’s reaction to this news may be linked to his worsening symptoms.
Remember pain occurs in the context of a person’s life and pain will be filtered and modified by factors such as:
- Fears and hopes for the future
- Spiritual beliefs
- Pressure and support from family
- Social and economic realities