Aims
The Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing Program (PCSNP), which was established by the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia in 2012, aimed to provide nationwide direct care to men with prostate cancer and subsequently improve their experience. This report describes men’s experience of the PCSN service during the program implementation.
Methods
567 men with prostate cancer who had at least one contact with a Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse (PCSN) were recruited from 12 health centres across Australia during the implementation period. Participants completed a questionnaire assessing the extent of their satisfaction and experience of the PCSN service in relation to information, treatment and care, practical support, general care, and communication with the nurse.
Results
More than 90% of the participants agreed/strongly agreed that the PCSNs provided information to them. Regarding general care, 90% agreed/strongly agreed that their cancer treatment went smoothly at each stage. In terms of communication with the nurse, more than 95% agreed/strongly agreed that they were given helpful answers to questions about their cancer and treatment, and they could contact the PCSN when necessary. For treatment and care, participants agreed/strongly agreed that they were provided information about health services or health professionals (91%), and their concerns were heard and acted upon (89%). One quarter or more participants did not agree that the PCSNs provided practical support, such as bill paying, arranging transport or accommodation for treatment. Overall, nearly all participants were satisfied (78% very satisfied, 7% moderately satisfied and 13% satisfied) with the level of support provided by the PCSN.
Conclusions
These results show that men with prostate cancer had a positive experience of care in their interaction with the prostate cancer specialist nurses. This was most evident in services related to information, treatment and general care, and communication.