Newly diagnosed with pancreatic cancer
Being told that you have cancer can be overwhelming. You may feel a range of emotions that make it difficult to take in all of the information you are being given.
Additionally, here are links that will be of benefit:
- Northern Ireland pancreatic cancer (NIPANC) – understanding your diagnosis
- Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy – patient guide
- Support services for people living with cancer and their carers
Your clinical nurse specialist/key worker can provide support and information that is specific to you. They are often your first point of contact if you have questions about your cancer or treatment.
The role of the clinical nurse specialist
The clinical nurse specialist (CNS) provides support, information and education to those who are affected by pancreatic cancer, and also the other Hepatobiliary Cancers including cancers located in the liver, gallbladder and bile ducts.
The CNS can help with any physical symptoms you may have, and will look at how your condition affects your everyday life.
The CNS works closely with the multidisciplinary team involved in your care and, if necessary, will liaise with community teams such as your GP, district nurse and, if appropriate, palliative care team.
Who can use the service?
Anyone in the Northern Trust who has a confirmed diagnosis of liver cancer, along with their relatives and carers, can get advice and support from the service.
How can I access the service?
Referrals are received from many different sources such as consultants, nurses and GPs. You can refer yourself to the service by contacting the CNS directly.
Why use the service?
When someone is told they have cancer, it can be a frightening and unsettling time. It may help to talk to someone who has time to listen and can answer any questions you may have.
The clinical nurse specialist is your named key worker and:
- Will be a link to other healthcare professionals and services, and be your main point of contact;
- Will answer any questions and offer written information about your cancer investigations, treatment or symptoms
- Will offer emotional and practical support and advice;
- May signpost or refer you to other professionals;
- May offer you a holistic needs assessment.
What is a holistic needs assessment?
Having a cancer diagnosis can affect many areas of your life. This is why you will be offered a holistic needs assessment. This assessment focuses on you and what additional information and support you may need to deal with your physical, emotional, spiritual and social needs, including work and finances. It is your opportunity to highlight issues that are most important to you and with our help to put a plan in place to meet these needs.
The clinical nurse specialist will work with you to develop a plan of care and if your carer requires assessment of his/her needs, this can also be arranged.
If you feel you would like a holistic needs assessment, or if you have any concerns or questions, please contact your CNS.
Contact details
Telephone: 028 9442 4213
Monday – Thursday, 9am – 4pm and Friday, 9am – 12pm (Excluding bank holidays).
If there is no one available to take your call, please leave a message on the answer phone. The CNS may not be able to return your call on the same day, but will ring you back as soon as possible. Please note, this is not an emergency service; if you need urgent help please contact your GP or Out of Hours service.
Your clinical nurse specialist/key worker can provide support and information that is specific to you. They are often your first point of contact if you have questions about your cancer or treatment. If you require this information in a different format, please speak to your clinical nurse specialist or your Macmillan Information & Support Service on 07795845435.
