MODULE 1. Interprofessional working in early detection of breast cancer
6. Psychological, social and physical aspects of early detection of breast cancer
1. Psychological, social and physical aspects of early detection of breast cancer
Importance of communication
Communication is a complex procedure; a combination of verbal and nonverbal communication, and there are numerous other factors behind it such as social and cultural views. It is important that the person receives the information understands it correctly and makes the use of it. Healthcare professionals must provide sufficient information, so the patient can make the decisions according to the available alternatives, potential risks and foreseen outcomes. (Perry – Broeders – de Wolf – Törnberg – Holland – von Karsa 2006, p. 382)
The discussion about the screening is even more complex. The health professional needs to approach an apparently healthy individual to undergo a test. Therefore, it is vital that individuals know the pros and cons, so the attendance is voluntary. To enable women to make an informed choice about attending screening, the information needs to be communicated properly and in an unbiased manner. In order to do this, there needs to be an understanding of the complexity of appropriate communication. Nurses must develop new and innovative approaches of communicating information to women. (Perry, etc. 2006, p. 381-382) How the information is given is as important as the information itself. The received information depends also on the communication skills of the health professionals. They need to be sensitive and recognize the potential impact of race, ethnicity, class and culture when providing the information. The language should be jargon-free and avoid mathematical or statistical concepts expressing the risks. It is essential that health professionals receive also appropriate training in communication skills. (Perry, etc. 2006, p. 384) |
The EUREF guidelines about the mammography screening define that the information should be clear, avoiding jargon and technical language. The information should always be evidence-based, ‘women centered’ and delivered effectively. Information to be provided should be accessible, relevant, comprehensible, include both benefits and risks, and tailored to meet the needs of the special groups.
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Patient relations
When it’s comes to the breast it is also good to recognize the sensitivity of the subject: the patient’s relationship with breasts and breast symbolism. Women from different cultures have different understanding of what their breasts mean to them. It influences their feelings about exposing their breasts to strangers as well as having their breasts examined, affects the feelings about the potential risks of losing one breast, or both, as a result, and also the way they feel comfortable to discuss about breast related issues. There might also be embarrassment or shame of the breasts which should be taken into consideration when communicating. (Long – Miller – Botsco – Martin 2000, p. 450-451.)
Special consideration should be given to women from different cultures. Women from less open cultures, which state that the open display of the female body is wrong or unacceptable, are much more uncomfortable about breast examinations and discussion about the breasts. |
Some cultures prohibit the uncovering of woman’s body. In those cases, the nurses need to remain very sensitive and patient when communicating with the patient. It is important that the health professional understands the anxiety, tension and uneasiness. Health care professionals’ who have better understanding of patient anxiety, often manage to create a positive atmosphere during an appointment. This will encourage women to return to examinations. (Long, etc. 2000, p. 452, 457.)
The Handbook of Mammography defines the key components for a positive experience:
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References
- Perry, N. – Broeders, M. – de Wolf, C. – Törnberg, S. – Holland, R. – von Karsa, L. 2006. European guidelines for quality assurance in breast cancer screening and diagnosis, 4th Edition. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities.
- Long, Shirley M. – Miller, Louise C. – Botsco, Margaret A. – Martin, Linda L. 2000. The Handbook of Mammography, 4th Edition, Canada.