Aims Of The Breast Care Nurse

To give support, information and education to the person with breast cancer, their faimlies and those close to them.

To raise awareness for people living with breast cancer, and their carers, of the facilities and support services available in the hospital and the community

To be part of the multidisciplinary treatment team.

To participate in, and raise awareness or research.

To be consumer advocates.

To teach other professionals.

Breast Care Nurses Can:

• Answer questions and give information
• Explain treatments
• Give information and assist with breast prostheses and clothing
• Discuss breast reconstruction
• Explain hospital procedures and facilitate test and admissions
• Visit patients in hospital, and assist with organising homecare
• Give wound care, teach arm exercises and lymphoedema precautions
• Provide coordination of care and act as a link with other professionals

SA BCN Network is an organisation for nurses working in this area.