A Multimethod Evaluation of a Specialist Breast Care Nurse–Led Survivorship Clinic in Australia

Objectives: To compare the needs and issues faced by breast cancer survivors (BCSs) who received chemotherapy as part of their treatment with those who did not and assess satisfaction with a specialist breast care nurse–led survivorship clinic.

Sample & Setting: BCSs who attended a specialist breast care nurse–led survivorship clinic at a Western Australian private, not-for-profit hospital.

Methods & Variables: A multimethod evaluation included surveys, quality-of-life assessments, and reviews of wellness plans.

Results: A total of 68 BCSs participated; the majority had received chemotherapy as part of their treatment and were female. BCSs experienced a diverse range of issues. Significant differences were found between chemotherapy and nonchemotherapy groups for financial difficulties (p = 0.002), body image (p = 0.017), future perspective (p = 0.022), and arm symptoms (p = 0.007). Participants indicated that the specialist breast care nurse–led clinic was appropriately timed and highly valued.

Implications for Nursing: Specialist breast care nurse–led clinics can identify and address BCSs’ ongoing needs.