Psychosocial concerns in cancer care: the role of the oncology nurse.

Oncology nurses know the importance of helping patients with cancer cope with their diagnosis and treatment. The impact of the disease and complex treatment regimens affects patients and families on many levels and often results in psychosocial concerns. The Oncology Nursing Society has been a national leader in advocating for complete care of patients with cancer, including the assessment of psychosocial concerns. New standards for accreditation of cancer facilities have brought national attention to this important element of cancer care.