Providing free online community support to people affected by breast cancer
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What is a Breast Care Nurse?
Breast care nurses are health professionals that have been trained to manage the care of patients with breast cancer. Their role is to be the principal liaison between the patients and the specialists who are coordinating their treatment- this could be surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy. They help to clarify technical or complicated information that a patient may not understand. They are there to provide emotional support as well as being a friend to the patient and their families.
Breast care nurses usually have a background in oncology, breast care or women’s health. They will also usually hold a post-graduate qualification in breast care nursing. Having the support of a breast care nurse can substantially improve an individuals’ quality of care because they have one main source of information and contact throughout their treatment. They can help minimize the stress and trauma of a breast cancer diagnosis for the patient and their families.
How do you find a breast care nurse if you are not in WA?
A breast care nurse may come into contact with a person experiencing breast cancer at any point of diagnosis and treatment. Sometimes the hospital where you are being treated will refer you to a breast care nurse, otherwise you are able to self-refer yourself, or someone you love, to a breast care nurse. In Western Australia, this can be done by simply calling Breast Cancer Care WA and organizing to speak with one of the nurses. Alternatively, and this applies to all state in Australia, you can access a breast care nurse by speaking with any of the health professionals you are dealing with at the hospital or going on to the McGrath website and searching for a breast care nurse by typing in your location.
Support Services Coordinator at BCCWA
