Document Type : Review Articles
Authors
1
Riyadh First Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
2
Sixth City Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
3
First health cluster, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
4
Third Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
5
The first health cluster in Riyadh, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
6
King Khalid Hospital - Al-Haytham Health Center, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
7
Thired Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
8
Hafer albatin cluster, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
9
Forensic Medical Services Centre Reyaddh, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
10
Third Health Cluster Riyadh, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
11
Sabya General Hospital Jazan Health Clustar, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
12
Tajamae hafralbatin alsihiyi mustashfi hafralbatin almarkazii, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
Abstract
Background: Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Nurses play a crucial role in the management and prevention of cervical cancer, from early detection through screening to post-diagnosis care and health education. Despite the vital involvement of nurses, their role in cervical cancer management has been under-explored in many settings. This comprehensive overview seeks to shed light on the varied contributions of nurses in managing cervical cancer and other tumors, emphasizing their involvement in prevention, diagnosis, care coordination, and education.
Aim: This article aims to explore and highlight the multifaceted roles of nurses in cervical cancer management, with a specific focus on screening, prevention, patient care coordination, and education across different stages of the disease. It also seeks to discuss the challenges and opportunities for expanding nursing involvement in cervical cancer care globally.
Methods: A scoping review methodology was employed to analyze existing literature on the role of nurses in cervical cancer care. Data were collected from various studies, reports, and case examples across both high-income and LMICs. The review focused on identifying nursing roles in cervical cancer prevention (including screening), health promotion, coordination of care, and follow-up management.
Results: The review found that nurses play a central role at multiple stages of cervical cancer management, from conducting initial screenings (Pap smears, VIA), providing health education, coordinating referrals for diagnostic tests, to supporting patients post-diagnosis through discharge planning and follow-up care. Nurses were also noted for their involvement in HPV vaccination programs and the promotion of cancer awareness. However, significant gaps in formal training and resources were identified, particularly in LMICs.
Conclusion: Nurses are essential to the comprehensive management of cervical cancer, especially in areas with limited access to specialized care. While their roles are widely recognized, there remains an urgent need for enhanced training, standardization of roles, and better integration of nurses into cervical cancer prevention programs. Expanding nurses’ roles could significantly improve cancer outcomes globally.
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