Pelvic Exenteration: A Nursing Challenge |
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| Authors: | MARY ELLEN DYCHE RN BS MN |
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| Affiliation: | Mary Ellen Dyche is a patient education instructor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine in Hershey, Pennsylvania. She has also been an instructor of nursing and has had experience as a staff nurse at Boston Hospital for Women. Her BS in Nursing is from the University of Oregon, and her MN, a clinical degree in Maternity Nursing, is from the University of Pittsburgh. Mrs. Dyche also attended Eastern Mennonite College in Harrisonburg, Virginia, during her undergraduate years. She is a member of NAACOG and Sigma Theta Tau. |
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| Abstract: | Pelvic exenteration, a radical surgical procedure usually performed for recurrent cancer of the cervix, results in changes in body function and appearance requiring extraordinary physical, emotional, and sexual adjustments by the patient and deeply affecting her immediate family. Her health care needs are best met when a primary care nurse is available to provide continuity from the initial contact with the gynecologic oncologist through convalescence at home. It is necessary that the nurse understand some of the problems in surgical management, pre- and postoperative physical care, and healing in order to deal with certain aspects of care. During convalescence, emphasis should be placed on the use of support and education to assist the patient in coping with tremendous body changes. |
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