Finding a pathway: Information and uncertainty along the prostate cancer patient journey

Abstract

Health professionals may contribute to the reduction of the negative effects of uncertainty through communication of information regarding process of care as well as medical issues. Strategies tailored to individual differences in information requirements and to changing needs may facilitate positive adjustment.

Renewing Perspectives on Men's Prostate Cancer Literacy and Engagement Along the Disease Continuum

“…To guide decision making in collaboration with physicians, men with prostate cancer face great challenges in learning about and understanding their disease (Barry, 2010). Two of these uncertainties relate to prostate cancer's trajectory and the complex information patients receive about their prognosis and treatment options (Nanton et al, 2009). These uncertainties influence men's ability to participate in decision making about their care.…”

“…Living well also included redefining one's sense of successful adaptation and, most important, adopting new familial and other social roles while being aware of one's own vulnerability (Kelly, 2009). Men's experience with uncertainty throughout their prostate cancer trajectory was affected by their knowledge about the disease, the disease's stage, and the availability of informal support networks (Nanton et al, 2009). These factors may, in turn, have affected men's desire to survive prostate cancer.…”

“…Those whose first languages are not English tend to complain about disrespect and racial discrimination and are thus less likely than Caucasians to advocate for tests and treatments (Elder et al, 2010). Older men with co-morbidities do not extensively seek i n f o r m a t i o n o n p r o s t a t e c a n c e r a n d i t s treatment, relying more on the technical expertise of health professionals (Nanton et al, 2009). How do health professionals deal with all these simultaneous and synergistic factors?…”

“…The way that health professionals deliver prostate cancer care can significantly influence men's active engagement in their care (Martinez et al, 2009). Knowledge of disease progression and response to treatments is key for men living with advanced or recurrent prostate cancer, because they need instrumental knowledge to deal with uncertainty about how long their bodies will be able to respond to therapies (Nanton et al, 2009). Being a partner in care means being a decision maker.…”

Using decision trees to enhance interdisciplinary team work: the case of oncofertility

“…However, research indicates that a systematic approach to the provision of patient information-a process that involves assessment of the patient's information needs, the provision of information that meets those needs and the assessment of how well the information provided has been understood and how satisfied the patients are with the information they have received-is the best approach to facilitate decision-making among cancer patients [16]. Uncertainty among patients during the decision-making process is both multifaceted and changing; effective communication by healthcare professionals provides reassurance, knowledge, and understanding [17].…”