Introduction of a novel, mobile, nurse-led prostate cancer education and testing service

Abstract

Testing for prostate cancer (PCa) remains a controversial issue with conflicting professional recommendations resulting in wide variation in general practitioner’s opinions, and advice to patients. As a result some men may not receive information about their risk of developing PCa, and are therefore unable to make a decision about undergoing testing. A nurse-led program was established for delivery of information about PCa, and providing convenient testing opportunities in the workplace. The program was evaluated and found to be an efficient and wellreceived model for delivery of this health related initiative.

Objective: The aim of this paper is to describe the development and evaluation of a mobile, nurse-led PCa education and testing service.

Setting: PCa information and testing in work-place environment.

Primary Argument: Controversy exists regarding the risks and benefits of PCa testing. Guidelines are conflicting, with one consistent premise being that men should be provided with enough information to make an informed decision. General practitioner’s uncertainty about appropriate advice, and men’s reluctance to engage in health seeking behaviours, make provision of information to men regarding the risks and benefits of PCa testing a challenge. This novel nurseled work-place service helps overcome some of the identified difficulties in men accessing information to enable them to make an informed decision regarding PCa testing and to undergo this testing.

Conclusion: The provision of work-place group education sessions and follow-up individual nurse-led consultation and testing sessions was well received and provided an opportunity for men to access information regarding PCa, and to undergo testing if appropriate, in a convenient, non-threatening environment.