Skin cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist

The clinical nurse specialist for skin cancer is Gwen Rylands. The clinical nurse specialist provides constant support to each patient as they progress through their care pathway.

They take the patient through each step and are dedicated to providing each patient with a personal service. Gwen can provide written information on conditions, explain treatments and to answer any questions.

The clinical nurse specialist works in partnership with ward staff to ensure that referrals to other services, such as local community cancer and palliative care teams, are made.

The clinical nurse specialist access to:
 

• Up to date clinical information, through discussion or distribution of patient information leaflets and booklets

• Practical advice and answers to questions

• Emotional support

• Referral to other services (if appropriate) such as to community groups

• Advice on how to obtain surgical appliances

Patients can also discuss a variety of issues, including:

 

• Surgery

• Radiotherapy and chemotherapy

• Benefits/financial entitlement

• Support services including social services, home and hospice care

• Emotional and psychological support and counselling

• Symptom and fatigue management

• Employment, driving and holiday travel

• Help with adaptations for the home/environmental aids

• Medications

• Local and national support groups

Gwen works from 9:00am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday, and is available to speak to either by phone or in person on these days.

An answer machine service is available for when she is not in. Gwen can be contacted by Te: 01782 554 874, Pager 01782 715 444 (Via Hospital Switchboard) or email gwen.rylands@uhns.nhs.uk