Talking about cancer: what young people want from nurses

Good communication, being transparent and treating teenagers as young adults are some of the key points young people with cancer value from healthcare staff

• When talking with a young person with cancer avoid jargon and be transparent
• Identify what is important to them and offer support, alongside clinical management, to build up an open and trusting relationship
• Avoid making assumptions based on age or appearance

If you ask young people with cancer what they want from nurses, good communication is high on the list. That includes using the style or method of communication that suits the young person, avoiding jargon, and being transparent and open.

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