Factors affecting patient selection for prostate brachytherapy: what nurses should know

Prostate brachytherapy is a proven treatment for clinically localized prostate cancer; however, many clinicians have multiple misconceptions regarding patient selection criteria. Although most patients are candidates for the procedure, contraindications do exist. This article examines criteria for patient selection and the need for adjuvant therapies, proposes management philosophies, and discusses the impact of each on treatment decisions. Nurses' role in the decision-making process and how they can facilitate patients and families in making informed choices also are discussed. Clinical studies seek to further define patient selection criteria and examine optimal choices for adjuvant treatment and isotope preference. Expanding the knowledge base of nurses helps enhance patient care.