Macmillan Clinical Nurse Specialist in Skin Cancer - The Royal ...

This leaflet has been provided to
answer some of the questions
you may have about the role of
the Clinical Nurse Specialist and
Key Worker within the Royal
Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust.
2. Melanoma
This is a cancer that develops from
pigment producing cells, and often
presents as a new or changing mole.
Melanomas can be cured if treated early,
but will spread to other parts of the body
if left untreated.
What can the Clinical Nurse
Specialist offer me?
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A contact point for people with cancer
at any stage.
Advice and support for you, your
relatives, carers and friends.
What does the Clinical Nurse
Specialist do?
She is able to offer increased levels of
support, advice and guidance to patients who
have skin cancer anywhere on their body.
Skin cancers can be put into two groups:
1. Non melanoma skin cancer
i) Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
This is the most common form of skin
cancer. It is very slow growing, and
rarely spreads to other parts of the body.
ii) Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
This is also a slow growing form of skin
cancer, which develops in the outer layer
of the skin. If left untreated, it can spread
to other parts of the body.
The Clinical Nurse Specialist works closely
with hospital nurses, doctors and other health
care professionals to co-ordinate care for
people suffering from skin cancer. She also
links with community carers and family doctors
(GPs) to maximise the communication
between all the involved personnel.
You may see the Clinical Nurse Specialist
when you are on the ward, whilst having
treatment or at your outpatient
appointments. You can also contact your
Clinical Nurse Specialist for support and
advice when you are at home.
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Help with physical symptoms such as
pain, fatigue or nausea.
Advice about treatments such as
radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Information about your illness.
Advice on your continued care at
home.
Someone to talk to about worries or
problems.
Advice on relationship, fertility or
sexual problems.
Advice and help on how to manage
financial problems.
Also, the Clinical Nurse Specialist will either act
as your key worker, or ensure that this role is
carried out by another professional. The clinical
nurse specialist/key worker is your main point
of contact within the hospital and will be
responsible for co-ordinating your care.