Final answer:
The nurse should provide print and online resources to the patient and encourage them to discuss treatment options with their healthcare provider, focusing on an informed decision rather than advising directly on the choice of treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a patient is trying to make an informed decision about whether to have surgery or more conservative treatment for prostate cancer, the ambulatory care nurse should provide the patient with print and online resources to help them understand the risks and benefits of all treatment options. It is important for patients to discuss these options with their healthcare provider to decide on the best treatment options for their particular case. Active surveillance may be recommended for older adults with slow-growing tumors, while younger patients or those with more aggressive tumors may need surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. All treatment options can have significant side effects, and the nurse ought to facilitate decision-making without imposing personal views on the patient.
The decision between surgical and conservative treatment options for prostate cancer should be based on factors such as the patient's age, the aggressiveness of the tumor, and the patient's overall health and preferences. Patients should be fully informed of the potential consequences of each option, including side effects like erectile dysfunction or urinary incontinence, and should consult their physician for detailed advice tailored to their individual case.