Perceptions and experiences after radical prostatectomy in Turkish men: a descriptive qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Oncology
• Men's Health

Background:

• Radical prostatectomy (RP) is a significant treatment for prostate cancer.
• Prostate cancer is a common cancer in men, affecting quality of life post-treatment.
• Urinary incontinence (UI) and erectile dysfunction (ED) are common side effects of RP.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences and perceptions of Turkish men post-RP.
• To gather patient perspectives on essential discharge training content.
• To identify needs for managing post-prostatectomy complications.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving men who underwent radical prostatectomy.
• Data collection focused on patient experiences and perceptions.
• Analysis of views on discharge education and support.

Main Results:

• Men undergoing RP experience significant challenges with urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction.
• Lack of adequate discharge information leads to difficulties in managing these conditions.
• Patients express a need for comprehensive education on home catheter care and UI/ED management.

Conclusions:

• Effective discharge training is crucial for men after radical prostatectomy.
• Improved patient education can mitigate the negative impact of UI and ED.
• Healthcare providers should prioritize comprehensive support for post-prostatectomy recovery.