Download Breast cancer: Pre-surgery class

Breast cancer: Pre-surgery class
Princess Margaret
For patients having breast cancer surgery, such as:
• Lumpectomy
• Mastectomy
• Sentinel lymph node biopsy
• Axillary lymph node dissection
For questions or for more information on the pre-surgery class, call:
Clinical Nurse Coordinator, Breast Surgery
416-946-4501, extension 4302
Please visit the UHN Patient Education website for more health information: www.uhnpatienteducation.ca
© 2015 University Health Network. All rights reserved.
This information is to be used for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional
medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific
medical condition. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for non-commercial personal use only.
Author: Ai Tanimizu, Clinical Nurse Coordinator
Created: 02/2015
Form: D-8527
What is the purpose of the class?
To best prepare people living with breast cancer for their surgery by giving
them more details on what to expect. This is a 2-hour group class, where
patients can learn with each other.
Patients are encouraged to ask questions to get the answers they need to feel
more ready for surgery.
What will I learn during the class?
The class is taught by Clinical Nurse Coordinators (RN), a Physiotherapist
(PT), a Registered Dietitian (RD) and Social Workers (SW). They work
together to give you information about:
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Your surgery
How to prepare for your surgery
How to take care of yourself after surgery
Exercises to do after surgery
What nutrients to take-in to prepare for surgery
How to cope with breast cancer diagnosis
Where to get more help and information
Why should I take the class?
Your healthcare team understands that you may be overwhelmed with
information when having treatment for breast cancer, such as surgery.
This class supports the information you are given in clinic, and gives you
time to ask any questions you may have.
Knowing what to expect will help you cope and maintain your wellness and
quality of life. It can also help reduce problems and risks after your surgery.
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People who have attended the class find it useful, and often share that
they were happy that they attended. The class also gives you a chance to
connect with others who are living with similar experiences as you.
When should I take this class?
It is most helpful to take this class when you feel ready to get more
information about your surgery.
When and where are the classes held?
The classes are always held:
• Every Tuesday (except on statutory holidays), from
10:00 am to 12:00 pm (noon).
• At the Survivorship Clinic, 2nd floor of Princess Margaret
Cancer Centre.
• Please arrive by 9:45 am (15 minutes early) to check-in for
the class.
How do I register for the class?
There are 2 ways that you can register for the class, or reschedule the class
if you can no longer attend:
1. Leave a message with the Patient Flow Coordinators on the Breast Site
Triage line: 416-946-2228, select option 1 (make sure you state your
name)
OR
2. Call your surgeon’s administrative assistant, and tell them the date you
would like to attend
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Can I attend the class with a friend or family member?
You are welcome to bring 1 guest to the class. We try to make room for as
many people to attend as we can. However, due to the small class space,
your guest may be asked to leave the room if many patients attend.
Please bring any questions that you, your family members, or friends may
have to the class.
The development of patient education resources is supported by the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.
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