Navigation in oncology: adding quality and wholeness to care

Case presentation: PRESENTATION: The present research describes a case of assisted navigation in nursing care, which evidenced the importance of this program in minimizing clinical barriers and/or complications related to oncological treatment. A woman aged 58 diagnosed with breast cancer was assisted. The treatment plan consisted of six cycles of outpatient intravenous chemotherapy with Pertuzumab, Trastuzumab, Docetaxel and Carboplatin. The approach began soon after the medical prescription for the first chemotherapy course, by scheduling a face-to-face meeting aiming at a warm reception, providing instructions on institutional procedure and treatment, as well as assessing her general health conditions. Then, some comorbidities were identified, such as type II diabetes and chronic kidney failure, with presence of arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis therapy. Discussion: DISCUSSION: The inclusion of the patient in the navigation program allowed for the prevention of complications and the coping with barriers during treatment. Prior assessment allowed for the indication of a fully implanted catheter and the alternate scheduling of hemodialysis courses. Symptoms of toxicity and several doubts of the patient during the process were monitored and guided by the nurse navigator. Actions such as suggesting the anticipation of medical consultation and advising nutritional evaluation avoided the worsening of the symptoms and possible hospital admission. Final comments: FINAL COMMENTS: Finally, we highlight the role of the nurse navigator program as an articulator of integrated care, adding quality to the treatment and potentializing health promotion strategies fit for the needs of the patient.