THE CANCER REHABILITATION SUPPORT TEAM CReST

Specialist Colorectal Cancer Nursing Service

The Colorectal Nurse Specialist is based at CCO to ensure that all patients (or carers) who have a diagnosis of colorectal cancer have access to information (written and verbal) on all issues surrounding the management of colorectal cancer, advice on treatment options, psychological support and symptom management.

They will be offered information, as they require it, relating to diagnosis, treatment modalities and progression or monitoring of disease.

The recognition of the impact a diagnosis of cancer has on an individual and their family, by addressing their individual needs, promotes informed choice and the enhancement of quality of life.

The colorectal (bowel) cancer nurse specialist is available to any patient (or carer) undergoing radiotherapy, chemotherapy or attending for routine appointments, with a diagnosis of bowel cancer.

The service offers:

• Psychological support
• Advice and support on issues of symptom management
• Comprehensive information about bowel cancer, planned treatments i.e. surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy and follow-up care
• Closely liaise with other agencies and services to provide continuity of care and adapt to the changing needs of the patient and carers
• To provide a contact and resource for patients and their carers while undergoing treatment and follow-up at CCO
• Information about useful organisations and patient support services
• Time to discuss problems and issues of management
• To act as a resource and source of support for staff, providing education and research based information on issues relating to colorectal cancer

Who to refer:

• Any patient with a diagnosis of colorectal cancer
• Family members / carers of a patient with colorectal cancer
• Members of staff needing further information about colorectal cancer

Who can refer:

• Any member of the healthcare team
• Patients and carers

How to refer:

By phone: 0151 334 1155 ext. 4685 or Bleep 4678

Specific
Rehabilitation:

Introduction

Our Team

Macmillan Women's Cancer

Lung Cancer Support

Macmillan Pallative Care

Radiotherapy Liaison Nurse

Colorectal Cancer Nursing

Therapists

Dietetics

Chaplains