Cancer Care in Primary Care Ireland

This module examines the incidence of common cancers, their causes and the risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing cancer. The National Cancer Strategy is reviewed, and ways to identify at-risk individuals are explored as well as actions that can help to prevent cancer.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

-        identify the common cancers

-        describe both the incidence and prevalence of each type of cancer in Ireland

-        identify key themes in the National Cancer Strategy and describe ways they can be delivered in practice

-        identify the causes and risk factors for the common types of cancer

-        recognize people who are at risk of developing cancer

-        describe the actions people can take to help prevent different types of cancer

This module focuses on early detection of cancer and its two major components: screening and early diagnosis. The merits of screening programmes are examined in the context of early detection, as well as the importance of encouraging individuals to consult their GP as soon as they notice potential cancer symptoms. This module also presents the ‘cancer journey’ a person embarks on once symptoms are identified.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

-        outline the criteria for establishing a national screening programme

-        appraise the benefits of screening for people at risk of developing cancer

-        evaluate the uptake of the three screening programmes in Ireland: breast, cervical and bowel cancer

-        identify when genetic screening is relevant

-        describe ways to improve timely detection of cancer in the community

-        describe interval cancers

-        describe the key elements of the cancer journey

This module reviews the evolution of cancer treatments and highlights their side effects and red flag presentations today. The treatment modalities for colorectal are examined, with a focus on adjuvant therapy and its adverse effects. The elements of surveillance for colorectal cancer patients are also explored.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

• describe the different treatment modalities available for treating cancer

• Identify the adverse effects and red flag presentations of systemic treatments

• describe immunotherapy and its side effects and evaluate its relevance for some cancers

• identify the treatment modalities used for the different stages of colorectal cancer

• identify adverse events and appropriate procedures for managing these in patients receiving adjuvant therapies

• explain why scanning and tumour marker assessment are used in surveillance of colorectal cancer patients

This module examines the treatment modalities for lung and breast cancer, reviewing adverse events relating to radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and breast surgery as well as treatment-related pain and bone pain.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

• distinguish treatments for small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer

• identify the treatment modalities used for the different stages of non-small cell lung cancer

• explain treatment-related pain and appropriate procedures for managing cancer pain

• identify the treatment modalities used for the different stages of breast cancer

• identify adverse events from radiation therapy, hormone therapy and breast surgery and appropriate procedures for managing these in patients

• identify sources of guidance for obtaining information on specific treatments and side effects

• This module examines palliative care and its aims to deliver care that is person-centred, life-affirming and life-enabling. It explores when to incorporate palliative care for a person living with cancer, where it can be delivered and by whom. The importance of holistic needs assessment and advanced care planning are also reviewed.

   

  On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

  • define palliative care and distinguish between key terms used in palliative care

  • describe the principles of palliative care and the structures within which palliative care is delivered

  • identify when to consider palliative care for your patients and who to involve

  • describe how to conduct a palliative care needs assessment

  • explain how to guide and record discussions on advance care planning in a timely and effective manner

  • consider various types of communication that may be necessary when caring for patients with an advanced or progressive life-limiting illness

  • explain the concept ‘total pain management’ and evaluate its application in practice

This module revisits life after diagnosis, and explores how people living with cancer view their condition. It examines the important role primary care plays in patient survivorship, follow-up care and what people expect at this stage in their cancer journey. Metastatic cancer is also discussed. On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

• • describe how survivorship is defined

  • consider how people with cancer appraise their condition and the impact of using labels to describe it

  • explain the importance of effective honest communications between healthcare professionals and cancer patients

  • discuss the follow-up care needs of patients with cancer and of their carers

  • describe the skills required to foster patient-centred care and to promote shared decision making

  • recognize the challenges that metastatic cancer poses for the patient, their family and their care