Adult Patient Resource Handbook - 5th Edition
Reacting to a Diagnosis
Waiting for Answers
Waiting can be a reality for many patients when a diagnosis is given. With many unanswered questions, and periods of time between appointments or treatments, it is very easy to get anxious and worried. The process of diagnosis may sometimes be lengthy as CT or MRI scans take time to be processed, pathology reports take days to weeks to return, and appointments can be scheduled days to months away. Waiting also takes place during treatment. Difficult waiting periods can include the anticipation and wait for surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy, and how they will result, thinking about recovery times and how it will impact your life, as well as waiting to hear the results following a treatment. It is human nature to become nervous when the unknown is in front of us.
It is important to realize that a certain amount of waiting time is necessary in order for your health care professionals to obtain the answers that they need to suggest appropriate care related to your diagnosis. Use this time to learn more about your diagnosis, access the support you need, and to take care of yourself both physically and emotionally.
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