Australian Oncology Nurses' Top Tips for Managing Treatment Side Effects

Oncology nurse’s experiences and professional insights offer invaluable strategies for managing the challenges associated with cancer treatment. Drawing from years of direct patient care and advanced clinical knowledge, these healthcare professionals play a pivotal role in improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

In this guide, we'll explore the top recommendations from Australian oncology nurses, highlighting professional strategies for managing treatment side effects, navigating emotional challenges, and maintaining patient well-being through comprehensive, holistic care approaches.

The Cancer Nurses Society of Australia emphasises a holistic approach to patient care that considers the many areas which attribute to recovery. Nurses consistently highlight the importance of comprehensive support, addressing not just physical symptoms but also the emotional and psychological impacts of cancer treatment. 

These approaches recognises that each patient's journey is unique, requiring personalised care strategies that adapt to individual needs and challenges. Below are some Australian nurses’ top tips for managing treatment side effects: 

1. Managing Physical Side Effects

Skin care emerges as a critical concern for oncology nurses, who recommend proactive management of cancer treatment-related dermatological changes. Aurora Direct's specialised skincare and scar management range offers a targeted approach to managing radiation and chemotherapy induced skin reactions.

Nurses advise patients to establish a consistent routine, using products specifically designed to protect and heal sensitive skin and scars after treatment. Further, nail toxicity is a common side effect associated with cancer treatment, impacting 30-40% of patients. Aurora Directs hand and nail kit helps minimise the impact of nail toxicity, helping patients build confidence through exfoliation and nourishing the nail beds. 

2. Nutrition and Symptom Management

Nutritional support represents another crucial area of focus for oncology nurses. They frequently recommend comprehensive nutritional strategies that go beyond traditional dietary advice. Australian nurses recommend products which rebuild the damage caused by chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy, such as Enterade. Enterade helps hydrate the body and provide nutrients to rebuild the cells of the mouth and stomach which have been affected by cancer treatment.  

3. Emotional Support and Coping Strategies

Australian nurses emphasise the critical importance of emotional well-being during cancer treatment. They recommend a multi-faceted approach that includes professional counselling, support group participation, and practical coping mechanisms. The Australian College of Nursing highlights the significance of providing patients with comprehensive emotional support resources, recognising that mental health is as crucial as physical treatment. Cancer Council offers an extensive guide to support groups in Australia which focus on bringing those affected by cancer together and creating unity. 

4. Treatment Support Solutions

Cold therapy has emerged as a breakthrough approach in managing chemotherapy side effects. IceCold gloves and socks have become a highly recommended intervention product by oncology nurses for preventing nerve damage and reducing peripheral neuropathy. 

The expertise of Australian oncology nurses is a highly critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A holistic approach which combines medical knowledge with compassionate support, provides patients with the tools and resources necessary to navigate the challenging journey of cancer treatment.

Connect with Aurora Direct today to learn more about our professional-grade products and commitment to excellence in cancer care.