found a 3x4cm brain tumor in a 50ish male a few weeks ago. Been going to his PCP for 2 months with headaches.
sometimes the job sucks.
Emily, I lost my Dad to brain cancer due to headaches that he thought was "just needing to get new glasses." I always screen heavily on headaches.
I am so very sorry.....I can't even imagine. After finding that tumor, I will forever after screen heavily as well....
Oh NP, I'm so sorry for you and your patient. I'm extra sorry for her that she could not depend on her family to get to appointments and tests. I certainly hope this was a wake up call to her daughter.
Once my cancer was there I made sure I kept each and every follow up test and appointment. I still have them. Even though I right now do not see my cancer Doc. my PCP does my 3 month blood work.
Thank goodness you took control of her health.
Cathy, I'm glad that you stopped by and commented. It's so important to be proactive about your health. I hate woulda, shoulda, coulda moments. Your story should be a pamphlet for others to read.
Wow. How terribly sad.
Yes, it was Lisa. Thank goodness it's only a small part of my practice.
Dear NP,
I stumbled across your blog in a timely manner (recently graduated and starting my first NP job next month).
I wanted to comment because I've been an Onc nurse for 10 years and I've always felt for the PC providers who actually have to deliver the news. By the time they get to us, they've had time to think about it, talk to to friends, look up stuff online, etc. It's the shock of that first moment, which you captured so well in your entry, that's the hardest. And it's something you can't really teach. You did a fantastic job. Keep up the good work and God Bless you and your patient.
Thanks Michele! I'm glad that you felt I handled it well. She's getting ready to have her port placed and is supposed to respond well to the chemo. I really hope she does!
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