Communication Tips

Finding your voice

Information is a powerful tool in the fight against cancer. Learning more about cancer and its treatment helps you become better prepared and active in your care. The best source of information about your health is from the members of your healthcare team. However, it is not always easy to get the information you need in words you understand from your doctors and nurses. Here are some tips that can help you get the most out of the time you have with the members of your healthcare team.

Be as factual as you can

Sometimes people exaggerate their symptoms or side effects to convince the doctor that they need attention. Others try to be brave and underplay their symptoms and side effects. Be as factual as you can. Tell your doctor or nurse exactly how you feel so that you can get the care you need.

Use your own words

The healthcare professionals may use medical jargon, but you don't have to. Describe things as you understand them in your own words. If the doctor or nurse uses language you don't understand, ask them to explain. Don't be afraid to ask more than once if you still don't understand. This is new for you.

Embarrassed? Say so

Sometimes people feel embarrassed to discuss some kinds of medical symptoms or problems. Admitting that you are embarrassed allows the other person to make you more comfortable with the subject. Also when you recognize an unpleasant emotion, it often becomes less unpleasant.

Getting the information

1. Make a list of questions to ask before you meet with your doctor or nurse.
2. List the most important questions first.
3. Take a friend or relative with you.
4. Remember that this is not your only chance to ask questions.
5. Try to accept that uncertainties are common. Medicine does not always have a definitive answer.

Refer to our helpful lists for questions you can ask your chemotherapy team before, during and after your treatments. See Conversations with my team.It's also important to be able to communicate with your family and friends. Find out more about talking with others around you.