| Abstract: | Cancer diseases, both in Slovenia and worldwide, represent a major public health challenge of modern times. Cancer does not only affect the patient's physical appearance, but also has significant consequences on the psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of the individual. A diagnosis of cancer is a major turning point in life, both for the patient themselves and for their family, as it affects every day functioning, self-image, relationships, and, consequently, their quality of life. Quality of life is a broad concept that encompasses an individual's subjective experience of physical health, psychological well-being, and social relationships. The quality of life in oncology patients is often impaired due to disease symptoms, treatment side effects, psychological distress, and social isolation. Therefore, it is important that patients’ health education focuses not only on treating the disease itself, but also on their quality of life. The nurse plays an important role in this process, as they spend most of their time with the patient, know the patient best, and serve as an important link between the patient, the physician, relatives, and support teams. |
|---|