Difference between nurses' and physicians' approach to denial in oncology

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Psychiatry
• Healthcare Professions

Background:

• Denial is a common psychological response in oncology patients.
• Understanding healthcare professionals' perspectives on denial is crucial for patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and compare physicians' and nurses' approaches to denial in cancer patients.
• To identify differences in how these professions manage denial and its impact on treatment.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews with 33 physicians and 94 nurses at a cancer center.
• Exploration of their experiences and usual approaches to patient denial.

Main Results:

• Most respondents consider denial a universal defense mechanism that can hinder treatment.
• Physicians tend to present facts once, allowing denial unless it impedes medical intervention.
• Nurses view denial as a phase, prioritizing honesty and experiencing discomfort when physicians withhold information.

Conclusions:

• Differences in managing denial stem from professional contexts, roles, and values.
• Nurses and physicians have complementary roles, but differing approaches to denial may affect patient care.
• Further dialogue is needed to reconcile these perspectives for optimal patient support.