The subject of the Bachelor´s thesis was inspired out of interest towards cancer patients’ nursing. Kanta-Häme Central Hospital Department of Hematology 6b suggested a thesis of a cancer patient psychological support. The research method was agreed as literature review. Topic was limited to hematologic cancer patients. Thesis topic was current and work life based, because the department was in need of up-to-date and latest re-search information.

The purpose of the thesis was to find out how the need for hematologic cancer patient mental support is assessed as well as how a nurse can support psychologically patients with hematological cancer during treatment on the hematological department. The aim was to produce information for the staff on the basis of earlier research knowledge about psychological support for cancer patients, which they can apply in practice.

Information was acquired from Cinahl and Medic databases and nursing magazines. The literature review summarizes the latest research from multiple studies in nursing and one dissertation. Material for the thesis in nursing literature and internet sources have been carefully chosen. The thesis was divided into two parts. The first part deals with patients’ support and the second part introduces support to the patient. Finding out the patient's need for support consists of the identification of the need for support and the need for support. Supporting the patient includes intellectual, emotion-al and practical support.

The studies show that the psychological support of hematological cancer patients is multidisciplinary and challenging. The patient orientation and recognition of individuality are paramount. Nurses should develop skills and psychological support for cancer patients should be more included into the cancer treatment plan.