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Background: metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) is an oncology emergency. Prevalence is increasing. Treatment and care are complex and those diagnosed may be faced with life-changing challenges. Aims: to review the impact and management of MSCC in patients with cancer, in order to analyse nursing considerations for supporting patients. Methods: a literature review and thematic analysis of five primary research papers, published between 2009 and 2014. Findings: two themes of prognosis/survival time and independence versus dependence were discovered. Conclusions: the onset of MSCC may result in paralysis and associated loss of independence, impacting on a patient's quality of life. Understanding individuals' prognosis and treatment/care preferences is fundamental for the sensitive, individualised support of patients with MSCC. The findings reinforce the nurses' role in health education, in order to raise awareness of MSCC and promote early diagnosis so that patients maintain function and independence as long as possible. The findings support the need for nurses to be equipped with appropriate communication skills to initiate and engage in sensitive, difficult and proactive conversations with patients and their families, supporting the delivery of humanised care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with cancer frequently present to hospital as an emergency admission acutely unwell. Patients can suffer from complications of the cancer itself, or significant adverse effects/toxicities related to their cancer therapy . Alternatively, the initial presentation of the malignancy may be through a hospital admission, and the cancer can frequently be widespread and with a poorer prognosis. Patients are often admitted under general physicians, away from their comprehensive cancer care centre or oncologists. Without specialist input or staff adhering to most appropriate pathways, the management of these complicated conditions may be difficult, with patients sometimes having unnecessary and painful investigations and prolonged hospital stays. To address these issues the concept of an acute oncology service has recently evolved. This is a developing sub-specialty that aims to improve the care of cancer patients presenting acutely to hospital at a devastating time in their lives. This article will explore the literature to describe the recent development of the acute oncology model, and consider different methods for the delivery of this service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) is a potentially life changing oncological emergency. Neurological function and quality of life can be preserved if patients receive an early diagnosis and rapid access to acute interventions to prevent or reduce nerve damage. Symptoms include developing spinal pain, numbness or weakness in arms or legs, or unexplained changes in bladder and bowel function. Community nurses are well placed to pick up on the ‘red flag' symptoms of MSCC and ensure patients access prompt, timely investigations to minimise damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metastatic spinal cord compression is a feature of advanced cancer and the incidence is likely to increase alongside improved survival rates. Patients with spinal cord compression have complex physical, psychological and social care needs. This article describes a multidisciplinary project aimed at improving the care provided to newly diagnosed patients who were admitted to a regional cancer centre for radiotherapy. The project used a range of approaches to measure care, develop and implement interventions, and evaluate outcomes. Aspects of care reviewed in the project included mobilisation, medications including steroids and thrombo-prophylaxis, bowel management, patient priorities and concerns, discharge planning and early detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]