A program developed in conjunction with the School of Nursing and Midwifery, La Trobe University.
Prostate cancer presents a serious challenge for the Australian community. In 2000 alone, 10,512 men were diagnosed with this disease making it the most frequently diagnosed cancer in Australian men. There are approximately 61,200 men living with prostate cancer - a significant health concern for all Australians.
Understanding of this disease and its treatments has increased in recent years, but there is still a lot unknown. Following diagnosis men require considerable support. There is the initial shock of the diagnosis, then the difficulties of deciding treatment options. Following that they may face the possibility of adverse outcomes or side effects from treatment.
The role for the prostate care nurse can be varied, acting as counsellor, advocate and advisor for men and their families from diagnosis to treatment, through to follow-up care and palliation where appropriate.
The primary aim of this 13-week subject is to provide Division 1 Registered Nurses with knowledge and skills required for this specialist area of nursing practice.
Key topics covered:
To be eligible, an applicant should:
Students study off campus through study guides, selected readings and supporting activities which integrate theory with practice. Students will be in close contact with the subject coordinator by phone or email and will be able to 'chat' with each other online through Web CT.
AUD $1,550.
The fee covers the cost of a study guide and selected readings, academic support, assessment and the certificate.
Students who successfully complete the Prostate Care Nursing subject may apply for credit towards a graduate certificate or postgraduate diploma in urological and continence nursing or cancer nursing.
The Cancer Council Victoria and Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia are offering $1,000 scholarships for nurses enrolling in the July 2006 intake. We encourage nurses to apply. Closing dates for scholarship applications is 30 June 2006.
More information can be obtained from Elizabeth Watt at La Trobe/Austin Health Clinical School of Nursing on 61 3 9496 4461 or e.watt@latrobe.edu.au
Successful students are awarded a Cancer Council Prostate Care Nurse Certificate.
Enrolment must be completed by 31 January and 25 June each year for the subject beginning in March and July.
For an application form please contact:
Education days are held once a year for prostate care nurses. View prostate nurse presentations from the education day on Thursday 22 July 2004, as well as some of the presentations from previous education days.
Elizabeth Watt
La Trobe/Austin Health Clinical School of Nursing
Phone: 61 3 9496 4461
Fax: 61 3 9496 4450
Email: e.watt@latrobe.edu.au
www.latrobe.edu.au/nursing
