Johnson’s Theory of Nursing focuses on the experience of the patient and the impact of stress on their ability to cope with illness. In the case of a patient who has just found out they have Stage 4 pancreatic cancer, it is important to provide them with resources and support to help them cope with the stress and uncertainty of their diagnosis.
One way to assist the patient is to provide them with an advanced directive and living will, which can help them make decisions about their medical care in advance and ensure that their wishes are respected. This can help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety that comes with uncertainty about the future.
Another way to support the patient is to connect them with a support group for individuals with cancer. This can provide them with a community of people who understand what they are going through and can offer emotional support and practical advice.
It may also be helpful to assist the patient with getting their affairs in order, such as creating a will or making financial arrangements. This can help alleviate some of the stress and burden on their loved ones and allow the patient to focus on their own care and well-being.
Meeting with a chaplain can also be helpful for some patients, as it can provide them with spiritual and emotional support during this difficult time.
Overall, by using Johnson’s Theory of Nursing to focus on the patient’s experience and provide them with resources and support to cope with their diagnosis, we can help them navigate this challenging time with greater resilience and a sense of control.