Nursing care program for erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy

The prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) in 114 patients with prostate cancer treated with radical prostatectomy was examined to determine the efficacy of an ED care program in which nurse-provided education plays a fundamental role in the detection and follow-up of ED as well as in treatment compliance. The nursing program consists of four visits during which specific treatment-related information, education and support, active listening, and selection of the treatment best suited to each patient (in consultation with the healthcare team) are provided. One month following bladder catheter removal, 77 of the 114 patients (69%) in the study had ED, with a majority suffering from severe ED. A nursing care program could help minimize ED and enable patients to adapt to their new situation.