The psychological and physical consequences of cancer threaten patients’ wellbeing and quality of life (Fallowfield 1991). Patients’ needs are wide ranging and can include both personal and physical demands as well as support, relaxation and distraction. This article describes how many of these needs can be cared for by the skilful use of hypnotherapy

On occasions, even the most persistent professional may encounter difficulties in gaining control of a patient’s symptoms. Hypnosis is perhaps an unusual nursing solution to these problems, but it can be adapted to almost any situation. It has been used for patients with cancer and for those in pain. One of its attractions is the ease with which it can be integrated into patient care (Puskar and Mumford 1990).