1. The client/caregiver can define the prostate gland.
   1. It squeezes fluid into the urethra during ejaculation to aid in transport and nourishment of the sperm.
   2. It is a small walnut-sized gland that surrounds the male urethra at the neck of the bladder.
2. The client/caregiver can list general facts about prostate cancer.
   1. It is a cancer of the prostate gland.
   2. It is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men.
   3. It is detected through a digital exam.
   4. Prostate cancers grow slowly and have a high survival rate if detected early.
   5. Most prostate tumors are not cancerous.
3. The client/caregiver can list factors that can increase the risk of prostate cancer.
   1. Advanced age
   2. Race (Blacks have increased risk)
   3. Hereditary
   4. Diet high in fat
   5. Occupation—working with cadmium, zinc, rubber, and dewaxing process in oil refining
   6. Obesity
   7. Sexually transmitted disease
4. The client/caregiver can recognize symptoms of prostate cancer, which usually only appears at advanced stages.
   1. Frequent urination, especially at night
   2. Difficulty starting or holding urine
   3. Weak or interrupted urine flow
   4. Pain or burning during urination
   5. Blood in urine
   6. Pain in lower back, upper pelvis, and upper thighs
   7. Weight loss
5. The client/caregiver can list common diagnostic tests.
   1. Digital exam
   2. Prostatic-specific antigen
   3. Transrectal ultrasound
   4. Needle biopsy with ultrasound probes
   5. Bone scan
6. The client/caregiver can state possible treatments.
   1. Surgery
   2. Radiation
      1. External
      2. Implantation
   3. Hormone therapy
7. The client/caregiver can list measures for the management of the disease.
   1. Eat a well-balanced diet with adequate fluid intake.
   2. Exercise daily with planned rest periods.
   3. Take medications as ordered.
   4. Keep follow-up appointments with physicians including annual digital exam.
   5. Report signs of decreased output, swelling, hypertension, weight gain, and so forth.
8. The client/caregiver can list possible complications.
   1. Spread of cancer
   2. Pain
   3. Urinary incontinence
   4. Erectile dysfunction or impotence
   5. Depression

Resources

American Urology Association
www.urologyhealth.org/index.cfm

Prostate Cancer Foundation
www.prostatecancerfoundation.org

Support groups

Sexual counseling