Treatment Decision-making for Early Prostate Cancer Patients - What Can Nurses Do

This review investigates the topic of treatment decision-making for early prostate cancer patients. The research question to be addressed is "What can oncology nurses do to support men with early prostate cancer in making treatment decisions?" Reports of primary research found by CIHNAL and Ovid search engines using the term "prostate cancer decision-making" are reviewed. A total of 18 studies have been identified. It is found that men with prostate cancer all need support and information when making treatment decisions. However, little has been said about the types of support and information needed or the best way to deliver them. The undesirable situation is coupled with people's seemingly innate wish to solve crises quickly and making decisions based on individual experience and misconception. As such, reciting treatment options simply and handing out generic literature cannot ensure that the patient and his family members fully understand the options available. It is argued that individualized treatment, with informed decision made jointly by the patient, his family and a treating team, offers the best chance for satisfactory outcomes. Nurses can make use of their research to design interventions and inform the patient of the treatment approach to better assist men in making treatment decisions. It is hoped that individualized and patient-centered treatment will become the norm in healthcare.