Work

Educational needs of patients with pre-cancerous vulval conditions: An audit and cross-sectional survey

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A systematic approach to surveillance of vulval dermatoses and pre-cancers is recommended for early detection of vulval cancer and nurses are crucial in care delivery. Typically, patients with gynaecological cancers have significant unmet information needs; however the extent in patients with vulval dermatoses and pre-cancers is unknown. AIM: To evaluate knowledge gaps and educational requirements of patients attending vulvoscopy clinics at a Western Australian tertiary centre. METHODS: A retrospective audit examined data of 307 patients attending vulvoscopy clinics. A cross-sectional survey collected quantitative and qualitative data from 61 clinic attendees between January 2024 and March 2024. Data underwent descriptive statistical and content analysis. RESULTS: Most audited patients attended with vulval intrepithelial neoplasia, vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia or lichen sclerosus diagnoses (n = 212; 69 %). Most survey respondents (n = 49; 84 %) were confident in vulval care, however, almost half (n = 27, 46 %) self-reported 'low' knowledge. In explaining their condition, most (n = 23; 48 %) provided symptom descriptions. Face-to-face appointments with a health professional was the preferred way to receive education (n = 48; 79 %). There was interest in attending nurse-led support group or education sessions. Most (n = 50; 85 %) indicated they would use an information pack including various resource formats. CONCLUSIONS: Patients know how to effect vulval care but may not understand why. Nurses are key to providing trusted care in conditions commonly associated with stigma and embarrassment. Development of nurse-led strategies to provide support and education, may assist reducing the risk of progression to cancer. Future research evaluating nurse-led interventions will support best practice and improve outcomes for people living with vulval conditions.

Source: Applied Nursing Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.apnr.2025.151951

Authors: Natalie Williams, Natarsha Wilson, Hayley Fleay, Bernadette McElhinney

Institutions: Curtin University, King Edward Memorial Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Health Literacy and Information Accessibility

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,690