Application of palliative care in patients with advanced colorectal cancer and intestinal obstruction

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the role of palliative care in advanced colorectal cancer patients with bowel obstruction. Methods From March 2015 to March 2017, 326 advanced colorectal cancer patients with bowel obstruction received palliative care on the basis of conventional nursing. They filled out questionnaire or accepted interview before and after treatments in time to show the change of patients′ physiological condition and quality of life. Results Advanced colorectal cancer patients with bowel obstruction got significantly improvements of the symptoms such as quality of sleep, anxiety, irritability symptoms after palliative care. Patients were more willing to communicate with medical staff, more confident in disease treatment and the relationships of patients and their families. The mood of patients and their relatives were more peaceful. Conclusion The application of palliative care based on conventional nursing will help advanced colorectal cancer patients with bowel obstruction to relief the symptoms and improve qualities of life. Palliative care has application value in clinical practice. Key words: Colorectal neoplasm; Palliative care; Bowel obstruction; Qualities of life; Questionnaire