The Prostate Cancer CNS Team at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre have been shortlisted for the prestigious Ingrid Fuchs Cancer Nursing Award at this year's Nursing Times Awards.
The team have been shortlisted for their work in expanding Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) provision for patients diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer. Thanks to the work of the Prostate Team alongside our Clinical Audit Team, collaborators and partners, a model was developed to increase CNS access. A service evaluation pre and post the project showed CNS access increased from 38% to 100% for this patient group.
Patients who have access to a CNS reported feeling more supported, more satisfied with their care and able to manage their symptoms better.
CNS Helen Blackmore, who led on the project, said: "The most important part of this work was reducing inequality in patient care and experience. This increase in CNS provision will greatly improve the care we provide to patients and those important to them helping, to optimise quality of life.”
“Since being seen by a CNS, our patients have told us they feel better supported and able to express their concerns and worries, from everything from finances and appointments, through to emotional challenges and difficulties with sexual function. I'm thrilled we've been shortlisted for this award, in recognition of all the hard work of everyone involved.”
The winner will be announced at a ceremony in London in October.
