How do Nurses “Think Family” and Support Parents Diagnosed with Cancer Who Have Dependent Children?

Many barriers exist regarding access to support and information for parents with cancer who are parenting dependent children and young people. There is little known about how nurses in acute settings support parents with dependent children. Many complexity factors exist which can increase the risk of behavioral problems in children when a parent has a cancer diagnosis. A recent study presented in this editorial identifies how there is a lack of confidence and skill experienced by specialist nurses in acute oncology settings regarding the needs and well-being of children where there is a cancer diagnosis in the family. Recommendations are identified for developing practice in this area and on increasing awareness of the needs of children and young people.