Knowledge gaps in prostate cancer treatment between physicians and clinical nurse specialists

Abstract

Delphi consultations, a method of gaining consensus by gathering expert opinion, were conducted in order to understand the role of degarelix as a treatment option for advanced hormone‐dependent prostate cancer. During the Delphi consultations, differences were identified between physicians and clinical nurse specialists in terms of their knowledge of therapeutic developments. We argue that disparities in knowledge between physicians and nurse specialists could limit the effectiveness of multi‐disciplinary teams in providing optimal patient care. When such situations arise, communication between patients and nurse specialists, often the patient's primary point of contact, may conflict with information they have received from the physician. This could lead to confusion and uncertainty among patients about whether they are receiving the best possible care. Time and resources should be provided to address the continuing educational needs of nurses, which will ultimately result in the improved care and experience of patients.

Degarelix administration technique optimisation: Consensus findings of an international Delphi nurse panel

“…Details of this established and widely used group facilitation consensus technique have been reported previously across a range of subject areas, [21][22][23][24][25][26][27] including prostate cancer [28][29][30][31] and several studies related to the use of degarelix. [32][33][34] Consensus statements were developed in line with recommendations outlined in the approved Summary of Product Characteristics for degarelix, along with insights derived from the pre-meeting nurse survey, published literature on optimal injection technique, 14 and the meeting discussion session with the nurses. A total of 25 consensus statements were developed and divided into two topics: (1) "Reconstitution" (9 statements) and ( 2) "Administration and patient care" (16 statements).…”

The Lymphoedema Genitourinary Cancer Questionnaire in urology follow‐up clinics

“…The role of the Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) in urology is complex and varied. The clinical focus for some is entirely cancer‐related, for others it is non‐cancer conditions, while others span multiple pathologies . Further, whereas some specialist nurses are cancer‐site specific, for example, breast cancer, this is not the case for most uro‐oncology CNS roles .…”

“…Further, whereas some specialist nurses are cancer‐site specific, for example, breast cancer, this is not the case for most uro‐oncology CNS roles . The CNS role is essential within the multidisciplinary team (MDT), supporting patient information and enabling shared decision‐making at every stage of the cancer journey . The information‐giving aspect is significant to the patient experience and understanding of the disease .…”

“…The clinical focus for some is entirely cancer-related, for others it is non-cancer conditions, while others span multiple pathologies. 1,2 Further, whereas some specialist nurses are cancer-site specific, for example, breast cancer, this is not the case for most urooncology CNS roles. 3 The CNS role is essential within the multidisciplinary team (MDT), supporting patient information and enabling shared decision-making at every stage of the cancer journey.…”

“…3 The CNS role is essential within the multidisciplinary team (MDT), supporting patient information and enabling shared decision-making at every stage of the cancer journey. 2,4 The information-giving aspect is significant to the patient experience and understanding of the disease. 3 Whilst patient contact with a cancer CNS in England may have increased, studies show worrying regional variances.…”