Some surgeons specialize in operating on different areas of the body. For example, some surgeons only operate on the lungs. Brain surgeons usually only operate on the brain. Oncology nurses have specialized knowledge and skill in giving chemotherapy and in providing nursing care to cancer patients. They monitor patients while they are receiving cancer treatment in the hospital, in an out-patient clinic or at home, when necessary.
Social workers help patients in coping with the stresses of the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
They can assist the patient and family by being a resource for information, by helping to coordinate discharge planning, and by counseling patients and families when needed. Nutritionists evaluate a patient's dietary needs and make special recommendations to meet those needs. Often, patients need the help of a nutritionist to learn how to get the calories and nutrients they need to maintain their weight and fortify their immune system so they can fight the cancer, the side effects of treatment, and infections that may develop. Physical therapists help patients to maintain muscle tone and adapt to any physical changes that happen because of cancer treatment. A physical therapist can design and supervise an exercise program that is appropriate for a cancer patient, and when necessary, perform passive exercises on a bedridden patient.