Abstract

The diagnosis of prostate cancer is extremely serious and overwhelming for men of any gender, age, or socioeconomic class. Unfortunately, many patients are left to deal with the ramifications of the illness with little information or coping mechanisms. Perhaps prostate cancer could be dealt with in a more productive and positive manner if patients had opportunities to vocalize feelings and ask pertinent and relevant questions of healthcare providers without feeling embarrassed or ashamed. Clearly, quality of life is changed in many ways by this serious and often lethal illness. According to Willener & Hantikainen, the illness is quite prevalent: Prostate cancer is the most frequent cancer in men over the age of 40. Men suffering fi’om prostate cancer cope with dual problems; first the diagnosis of prostate cancer and second the potential negative effect on their sexuality after treatment (Willener & Hantikainen, 2005, p. 88). Due to the overwhelming sexual health issues which impact quality of life in these patients, it is crucial for nurse practitioners as primary care providers to examine these issues and put a plan of action into practice to help restore sexual health in these patients. Furthermore, the hindrances which accompany a diagnosis of prostate cancer often prevent patients from achieving quality of life. It is important to open the lines of communication between patient, nurse practitioner, and spouses or partners of patients in order to develop a plan of action which might restore or even improve the quality of life in these patients. A systematic review of literature using a computer search of CINAHL and MEDLINE identified a vast amount of literature on the variables of quality of life and prostate cancer. 197 articles in CINAHL and 1331 articles in MEDLINE were listed. The variable of quality of life listed 1247 sources of literature. For the purposes of this literature review, a grand theory was selected to form the theoretical foundation for the purposes of this study. Neuman’s Systems Model forms the foundation for this literature review. "The major concepts identified in the model are wholistic client approach, open system, basic structure, environment, created environment, stressors, lines of defense and resistance, degree of reaction, prevention as intervention, and reconstitution" (Tomey & Alligood, 2002, p. 301).

Degree

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Department

Graduate Nursing

Degree Date

7-31-2006

Publication Number

27919817

First Advisor

Dr. Rebecca Cagle

Second Advisor

Dr. Sandra Kirkland

Document Type

Thesis

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