Pancreatic cancer: a continuum of care

To provide information about the etiology, clinical manifestations, treatment, and symptom management of pancreatic cancer.

Textbook chapters, research studies, and review articles.

Cancer of the pancreas is a devastating disease. A diagnosis of pancreatic cancer causes a person to consider both quantity as well as quality of life. Hope for improved quality of life and survival relies on the efforts of a co-operative multidisciplinary team approach.

Numerous nursing challenges exist in providing care for the patient with pancreatic cancer. Treatment, symptom management, and psychological, social, and spiritual support are essential in meeting the needs of the patient and family through the eventuality of the disease.