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For many people affected by cancer, Macmillan nurses are a valued and trusted source of expert information, advice and support - free of charge. As of June 2010, there were 3,452 Macmillan nurses across the UK, working both in hospitals and in the community.
All Macmillan nurses are registered nurses with at least five years' experience, including two or more years in cancer or palliative care. They also complete specialist courses in managing pain and other symptoms, and in psychological support. Macmillan nurses are usually employed by the NHS and their posts are funded by Macmillan for a set time, commonly the first three years. After that time, the long-term funding is taken up by the NHS or other partner organisations. The nurses work in NHS hospitals and the community, but are not usually associated with private health care. They do not undertake routine nursing tasks, but if you need this kind of support, there are many other kinds of nurse that can help|.
Some Macmillan nurses specialise in particular cancer types or treatments. For example, Macmillan chemotherapy nurses give chemotherapy treatment to patients, and help them to cope with the side effects that may occur. Macmillan breast cancer nurses support women from the screening and diagnosis stage helping them to make informed decisions. They give practical and emotional support and help some women come to terms with a mastectomy. Macmillan paediatric nurses help children with cancer and their families. They provide support for the child and parents at home and in hospital, and help to keep children at home with their families as much as possible. Macmillan lead nurses are senior nurse managers, helping shape the future of cancer and palliative care services in their area.
To obtain the services of a Macmillan nurse, you must be referred by your GP, your hospital consultant, a district nurse or a hospital ward sister. Don't hesitate to ask them if there are Macmillan nurses available in your area.
Macmillan nurses are available in most areas of the country, but if there is not a Macmillan service in your local area, you can be referred to alternative specialist services. Call us| to find out about getting a referral for a Macmillan nurse.
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
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Julie Hoole is a head and neck cancer nurse for Macmillan, trained to help people affected by cancer deal with their diagnosis and treatment.