Behind the scenes: partners' perceptions of quality of life post radical prostatectomy

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of the experience of a radical prostatectomy on the partners of men with prostate cancer. The women described the effects of the experience on their lives and on their partner's life. Descriptions included how they were informed of their partner's diagnosis, emotions at the time of the initial diagnosis, and the sources of information and the decision process that they and their partners used that lead to surgery. The effect of the experience on their quality of life including interpersonal and sexual relationships with their partner and the information that was needed to facilitate self-care after surgery were described. The women provided clear directions for improving the health care system in managing the cancer experience using a family-centered approach.