Educational needs of patients with pre-cancerous vulval conditions: An audit and cross-sectional survey

Background

A systematic approach to surveillance of vulval dermatoses and pre-cancers is recommended for early detection of vulval cancer and nurses are crucial in care delivery. Typically, patients with gynaecological cancers have significant unmet information needs; however the extent in patients with vulval dermatoses and pre-cancers is unknown.

Aim

To evaluate knowledge gaps and educational requirements of patients attending vulvoscopy clinics at a Western Australian tertiary centre.

Methods

A retrospective audit examined data of 307 patients attending vulvoscopy clinics. A cross-sectional survey collected quantitative and qualitative data from 61 clinic attendees between January 2024 and March 2024. Data underwent descriptive statistical and content analysis.

Results

Most audited patients attended with vulval intrepithelial neoplasia, vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia or lichen sclerosus diagnoses (n = 212; 69 %). Most survey respondents (n = 49; 84 %) were confident in vulval care, however, almost half (n = 27, 46 %) self-reported ‘low’ knowledge. In explaining their condition, most (n = 23; 48 %) provided symptom descriptions.

Face-to-face appointments with a health professional was the preferred way to receive education (n = 48; 79 %). There was interest in attending nurse-led support group or education sessions. Most (n = 50; 85 %) indicated they would use an information pack including various resource formats.

Conclusions

Patients know how to effect vulval care but may not understand why. Nurses are key to providing trusted care in conditions commonly associated with stigma and embarrassment. Development of nurse-led strategies to provide support and education, may assist reducing the risk of progression to cancer. Future research evaluating nurse-led interventions will support best practice and improve outcomes for people living with vulval conditions.