Introduction

In the case of nursing care provided to patients with an advanced-stage of the disease, it is crucial to recognize their multifaceted health problems and to introduce an intervention which would be suitable for patients’ needs and capacities in order to enable them to reach the highest possible quality of life. The objective of this study was to present a nursing plan for advanced-stage anal cancer patients with the application of the International Classification for Nursing Practice ICNP®.

Case study

A man aged 65 was admitted to a hospice. He was diagnosed with anal canal cancer and he had a colostomy formed. The patient suffered from extensive cancerous ulcers around the anus and lymphatic edema of lower limbs.

Discussion

Advanced-stage anal cancer patients may multifaceted suffering. The main objective of palliative care is improving the quality of life of these patients and their families. An important element of care is to adapt interventions to the individual needs of patients.

Conclusions

The application of the International Classification for Nursing Practice ICNP® makes it possible both to form nursing diagnoses and to plan essential nursing interventions.