19 Introducing the case study
Chapters 19–24 follow a patient diagnosed with breast cancer, in the form of a case study. Each chapter identifies a stage of the patient experience. As the case study unfolds, there are a number of activities to complete. In each activity, you are given the opportunity to explore a variety of nursing interventions and provide holistic support for both the patient and her family. You are encouraged to refer back to the anatomy and physiology, and other health theory, in Sections 1 and 2. Practical exercises are suggested for you to do either while on placement or by reflecting on previous experience. It is, therefore, useful to have your notes from Sections 1 and 2 handy since you will be directed back to some of the activities you have already completed.
