A systematic approach to breast care nursing in the rural setting: Development of a database and support tool to ensure continuity of care

Breast care nurses (BCNs) are known to improve the cancer experience for those diagnosed with breast cancer. This paper examines the specialist breast nurse competencies and the development of a database and support tool to assist BCNs in the provision of continuity of care in a rural hospital in New South Wales (NSW). The database and tool, guided by the competencies, supports the provision of optimal care through a more structured approach to management.