This paper describes the application of an empirically-derived psychosocial assessment for use in advanced cancer. The patient population selected for this study was those patients no longer pursuing aggressive antitumour treatment, and the focus of care was on management of major symptoms and complications, and psychosocial support of the patient and family. The physical, cognitive, social and emotional dimensions were the framework for the assessment of both patient and caregiver functioning. Through this assessment of all patients admitted to our inpatient palliative medicine unit, care needs were identified and psychosocial interventions planned. The results of 150 assessments are reported, as well as observations of the process, implications for psychosocial care and modifications of the assessment based on this experience.

described are exclusively American. This has the effect of alienating, and possibly even confusing, the reader. Similarly, the author draws deeply upon her Christian faith throughout the text, and does so in such a way that excludes anyone who does not share her particular religion. The lack of any reference to an alternative cultural, spiritual or religious perspective is suggestive of a missionary approach to the subject, and unfortunately serves only to narrow the potential audience for the book.

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