A member of your healthcare team will talk to you about any physical, emotional, spiritual or practical issues you may have. They may call these checks a needs assessment or holistic needs assessment (HNA), but they may not. They will help you manage any issues you have.
Your doctor or nurse should ask how you are coping emotionally. This includes how you are coping with your diagnosis, any symptoms you have, and any feelings of anxiety or depression. It’s common for people with pancreatic cancer to feel worried, sad or to have low mood. But there are ways to get help.
If you are finding it hard to cope, you should be given information about the support that is available. You should also be told about other organisations that can support you. This support should be available throughout your care and tailored to your needs.
“The nurses were brilliant. When they came to see dad, the nurse saw that mum wasn’t coping and spoke to her for an hour. We are very thankful.”
Cancer can have an impact on everyday life for you and your family. There is practical support available, such as support with financial issues. This may be from charities and other organisations. Ask your healthcare team or GP who you can speak to about what practical support is available.
You and your family should be involved in plans for any care you have at home. For example, you may need help from a community nurse. These services can support families as well as the person with cancer.
If you are leaving hospital, your medical team will assess what care and support you may need at home. This is called a needs assessment or discharge planning.
The assessment will be used to create a discharge plan and, if needed, a care plan. These include details such as what treatment and support you will have at home, and who to contact if there is a problem.
Updated August 2024
Review date August 2026