Decision-making about cancer treatment relies on effective communication between healthcare professionals and patients. It is also a common point of communication breakdown. Nurses are expected to support patients in the decision-making process, but to do this they need to understand the factors that affect decision-making.

A review of the literature shows that there are a range of factors at play, including communication and information giving from healthcare professionals, the influence of children and relatives, patients’ hopes, and weighing the benefits of treatment against the risks of side effects. The findings reinforce the importance of nurses using effective communication skills and a person-centred approach to provide information on cancer treatment to patients, support them to understand that information and empower them to make informed decisions about treatment.