Abstract:
A survey of women who had surgery for breast cancer during 1997-1998 at St George Hospital or St George Private Hospital
identified substantial deficits in the provision of information, perceived support and the use of available services.
Consequently, a Breast Care Nurse (BCN) was appointed for a 12-month trial period to undertake individualised needs
assessment and provide emotional support, education and referral to appropriate services over the treatment trajectory from
diagnosis through to the completion of treatment.
A questionnaire regarding the role of the BCN was sent to 63 women who had surgery at either hospital during the period
September 1999 to January 2000 with 50 responding (79%). Ninety percent of respondents reported that it was helpful or very
helpful to talk to the BCN, and all clients who recalled receiving verbal information about their surgery rated this as helpful or
very helpful.
These results show a high level of consumer endorsement of service provision by the BCN and demonstrate the effectiveness of
the referral process. During this 12-month trial period, consumer demand resulted in expansion of the service from 24 hours
per week to one full time and one part time position. Ongoing evaluation of this developing role will be required to ensure th at
women's needs during a crisis time in their lives are optimally managed.
