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Understanding denial.
1Forum Health, Youngstown, OH, USA. pstephenson@forumhealth.org
Oncology Nursing Forum
|September 21, 2004
Summary
Denial is a dynamic coping mechanism in cancer care, not always negative. Understanding its adaptive uses improves nursing care and the nurse-patient relationship.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Oncology Nursing
Background:
- Denial is often overgeneralized by oncology nurses.
- Uncertainty about denial's value leads to negative perceptions.
Observation:
- Patients experience denial throughout their cancer journey.
- Denial is an interpersonal and fluid process.
Findings:
- A broader definition of denial by nurses can strain relationships.
- Recognizing denial's adaptive value is key.
Implications:
- Nurses need a clearer understanding of denial's adaptive and maladaptive uses.
- Patience and self-awareness enhance the nurse-patient relationship in denial.
- Effective patient care requires acknowledging denial's fluid nature.