Korean J Adult Nurs.  2019 Jun;31(3):315-324. 10.7475/kjan.2019.31.3.315.

Oncology Nurses' Knowledge Regarding Fertility Preservation for Patients with Cancer

• Kim M
• Nho JH
• Lee A

• KMID: 2450095
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.7475/kjan.2019.31.3.315

Abstract

PURPOSE
Cancer diagnosis and treatment affect patient fertility. Although the reproductive method has been well studied, early assessment of fertility and discussions of infertility-related issues are not very common. This study evaluated oncology nurses' knowledge regarding fertility preservation for patients with cancer.
METHODS
This study was conducted from March 11 to May 13, 2015 using a convenience sample of nurses who were caring for patients with cancer at a tertiary hospital in South Korea. We recruited 123 oncology nurses and used questionnaires to collect cross-sectional data regarding their knowledge about the causes of fertility impairment (Cause score), fertility preservation in general (General score), and methods of fertility preservation (Method score).
RESULTS
The mean total score of fertility preservation knowledge was 15.46±3.64, and the mean Cause, General, and Method scores were 6.28±1.86 out of 11, 5.72±1.50 out of 8, and 3.54±1.19 out of 6, respectively. Significant differences in knowledge levels were found according to nurses' marital status and total nursing experience. Nurses who assessed the issue of fertility upon the first encounter with patients and provided active nursing care had the greatest knowledge.
CONCLUSION
Oncology nurses should have in-depth understanding of fertility preservation and must discuss the topic with patients with cancer. Nurses should also identify each patient's individual needs through continuous assessment and provide referrals to appropriate specialists both before and during treatment.

MeSH Terms

Diagnosis
Fertility Preservation*
Fertility*
Humans
Korea
Marital Status
Methods
Nursing
Nursing Care
Referral and Consultation
Specialization
Tertiary Care Centers