A fundamental aspect of supportive care delivery: the nurse's opportunity to shape the caring encounter

Recent advances in supportive care therapies have significantly contributed to the likelihood that a child diagnosed with cancer will be cured. Quantitatively recognized supportive care practices, such as central line care management, pain control, nutritional support, and blood transfusions are typically identified as the major contributors to these improved rates of survival. However, just as important are the more qualitative aspects of the nursing care delivery process. As a fundamental part of nursing's caring role, the encounter with patients and families offers unique opportunities for nurses to participate in the creation of a healing environment. Gaining understanding and skill at balancing professional relationships, while also knowing the risks of caring, are critical components of providing excellent supportive care to pediatric oncology patients and their families. The professional caring encounter is a complex and multidimensional process. Strategies for developing optimal communication and healthy professional caring relationships within the pediatric oncology setting are discussed.