A nurse led clinic for suspected prostate cancer referrals can be safe, cost and time efficient

Lawrence Drudge-Coates

doi:10.21767/2574-2825-C4-012

A nurse led clinic for suspected prostate cancer referrals can be safe, cost and time efficient

EuroSciCon Event on Nursing Diagnosis & Midwifery
September 10-11,2018 Prague,Czech Republic

Lawrence Drudge-Coates

Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Nurs Health Stud

DOI: 10.21767/2574-2825-C4-012

Abstract

Statement of the problem: In a rapidly changing healthcare landscape with continually growing financial pressure to deliver timely and effective healthcare, a multi-professional approach to urological cancer care has therefore become of paramount importance. The utilisation of highly skilled, competent urology nurses has demonstrated that nurse led approaches, deliver safe and clinically effective care, with high patient satisfaction and improved patient outcomes. However to date, no studies have presented the outcomes of a nurse led approach for suspected urological cancers. We therefore present our 3-year experience of a urology nurse practitioner (UNP) led approach, for the assessment and management of men referred with suspected prostate cancer. Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: A patient questionnaire was sent to the first 100 referrals. To assess the clinical management plans, a modified Delphi analysis technique was employed based on 60 randomly chosen patient cases, then assessed by 3 independent urologists. A cost analysis was based on the new assessment pathway. Findings: Delphi analysis reported an 86.7% agreement regarding the management plan outlined by the UNP. There was a 52% overall reduction in waiting times with the introduction of the UNP led service. Cost-reduction potential of £36,828 was observed by reducing followup clinic appointments and a modest initial cost-reduction of £9,398.48 by using a UNP.63 questionnaires were completed, 90% reported being satisfied with seeing a UNP instead of a doctor for their first appointment. 95% reported that following the initial hospital visit that they had a clear understanding of their assessment management plan. Overall 86% were “very satisfied” with the nurse-led service. Conclusions & Significance: The service is safe, cost and time efficient. Through a supported training programme, urology nurses can deliver a high standard service, in line with our medical colleagues.