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Enhancing nursing practice potential: breast free flap reconstruction following mastectomy
Stefanie Hughes1, Karen-Leigh Edward, Bree Hyett
1Plastic Surgery Unit, St Vincent's and Mercy Private Hospital, Mercy Campus.
Background:
Breast cancer is the most common cancer for women in both the developed and the developing world, comprising nearly one quarter of all female cancers. The most advanced forms of treatment, including mastectomy, may produce a five-year survival rate of 75% or more for certain types of cancer. For women experiencing breast cancer, breast reconstruction is often a positive option that can enhance quality of life and plays a significant role in a woman's recovery from breast cancer.
Aim:
The aim of this article is to present some different cases of women who have undergone autologous breast reconstruction free flaps and discuss advanced and intensive nursing care practice.
Implications For Practice:
Nurses need to not only be proficient in the postoperative physical care of patients who undergo mastectomy but also demonstrate advanced skills related to the educational needs of patients and their families and to ensure care is delivered in a manner that is patient centred and individualised. Nurses require advanced skills to meet the social and psychological care needs of the patient and their family during this major life event.
