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Dad refusing CT scan

BrendaT
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  • 44 subscribers
  • 125 views

Hello,

My dad's 73, had regular diarrhea for a year. Poo screen was positive so was booked in for colonoscopy. 

On the day he backed out. Didn't go. 

Now refusing to reschedule. Too scared. Blames no one talking him through it but letter he got was very detailed. He read it. And I went through it with him additionally as well.

He is quick to anger when I try to talk to him about it and I don't know what to do to get him to go.

Obviously I have offered to go with him but he doesn't want that either. 

We lost my mum to myeloma 18 months ago which certainly adds to his fear.

Any advice?

  • Hi BrendaT

    Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to our online community. My name is Sarah one of the nurses.

    It sounds a difficult time for you with your dad who was booked for investigations for cancer. It is understandable that he is feeling scared and a little uncertain about what to expect. Also having lost your mum only 18 months ago to Myeloma.

    It is difficult to make someone go for investigations if they are refusing. But it can help to acknowledge their fear and explain it is natural to feel like this. Be honest with him and ask, ‘what worries him the most’.

    It might be helpful to have a chat with his GP in confidence, about his fears or he maybe able to speak with one of the nurses from the colonoscopy clinic to understand a bit more about this test. Understanding more about what may happen on the day can help relieve fears.

    Sometimes it’s better to talk to one of our nurses so we can gain a better understanding of the current situation and give you the best guidance. It sounds a difficult time for you too and we would love to support you further.

    I hope this information helps. Please feel free to get back in touch if you want more information or support.

    Best wishes,

    Sarah

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

    Ref/ SS/PW

    Sarah S-Macmillan Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
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