The role of a nurse in caring for a patient after hemipelvectomy in the course of osteosarcoma

Introduction
Osteosarcomas are rare malignancies appearing most commonly in children. A characteristic feature is the tendency to metastasis and formation of local and distant nodes. The tumour does not show any characteristic symptoms for a long time. Treatment is based on the use of chemotherapy and surgical resection of the neoplastic lesion.

Case study
The study included a 15-year-old patient who underwent hemipelvectomy in the course of osteosarcoma on the first day after surgery. The patient’s condition required the implementation of advanced medical procedures and the improvement of the convalescence process. A number of problems have been identified care that lowers the standard of living. It was necessary to taking up educational and motivational activities by the nurse and supporters.

Results
Several nursing problems that lower the standard of living have been diagnosed. It was necessary for the nurse to undertake educational, motivational, and supportive activities.

Conclusions
An appropriate approach to the patient, identifying the patient’s needs, and planning the nursing process determine faster recovery of the patient.