The Breast Care Nursing Service aims to provide physical, psychological, social and spiritual support for women who have, or fear they have breast cancer. We will try and improve the service in response to patient comments and current research.

What is a Breast Care Nurse Specialist?

• She is a qualified nurse who has specialist training in breast care and who works as part of the breast care team based within the hospital.
• Initially the breast care nurse will see you at your first outpatient appointment.  After that she will be in regular contact with you throughout your investigations and treatment.  This may include contact by telephone, letter or at outpatient appointments. 
• She is skilled in advising you regarding breast screening, breast disease and treatment options and can provide you with practical information and support in all aspects of breast care. 
• She is able to provide continuing support to you, your partner and your family if you have, or fear you may have breast problems.
• She will be able to put you in touch with local support groups and voluntary agencies. 
• She will be happy for you to contact her to discuss anything you feel is important to you and will treat anything you discuss with her as confidential.

How to contact your breast care nurse

We are usually in the office between the hours of 9 11.00am Monday to Friday.  At other times if a Nurse is not available to take your call there is an answer phone service for you to leave your name, your telephone number and the name of the Breast Care Nurse you would like to speak to.  The answer phone is checked regularly throughout the day (8.30am-4.30pm) and we will always try to return your call within 24 hours.  However feel free to call again.

Your breast care nurse is:

Published by Clinical Nurse Specialists (Breast Care)

Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals Trust

Next Review March 2010