ABSTRACT

In order to prevent misunderstanding of diagnosis, care and treatment procedures for cancer patients, it is suggested to establish a standard thorough set of procedures within the healthcare system in accordance with the recommendations of international cancer organizations. Following these recommendations, many countries in Europe have already set up cancer treatment centres as part of their own health care system. Along with the establishment of specialized breast cancer treatment centres, breast cancer treatment and nursing became a requirement in general oncology centres worldwide. Despite the establishment of breast cancer centres in different regions of Turkey, breast care nursing procedures have either not been introduced or are not adequately performed. In order to introduce this program effectively, improve understanding of the disease and provide continued quality treatment for cancer patients, the Ministry of Health should organize specialized in-service training programs for nurses within cancer centres, state hospitals and university hospitals. It is in light of this situation that the current review discusses the experience of breast cancer treatment centres and private practice in German-speaking countries, analysing their approach to specialized nursing and breast cancer care procedures.