Comprehensive Learning Guide for Nurses: Care of Patients Undergoing Wire Localisation and Wide Local Excision with Sentinel Node Biopsy

Introduction

This guide provides detailed instructions and educational points for nurses caring for patients undergoing a wide local excision and sentinel node biopsy, including preoperative wire localisation. The guide covers all aspects of patient care from the initial preparation to post-surgical recovery, ensuring comprehensive understanding and high-quality patient care.

Part 1: Preoperative Wire Localisation and Medication Administration

Preoperative Medication Administration

1. Purpose:

• The medication given the day before the procedure is a radioactive tracer or blue dye, aiding in identifying the sentinel lymph node during surgery.

2. Common Medications:

• Radioactive Tracer (Technetium-99m Sulfur Colloid): Injected into the breast tissue near the tumor site.
• Blue Dye (Isosulfan Blue or Methylene Blue): Stains the sentinel lymph nodes for visual identification during surgery.

Wire Localisation Procedure

1. Purpose:

• Mark the location of abnormal tissue in the breast to guide the surgeon during excision.

2. Setting:

• Performed in the radiology department or a specialised breast care center.

3. Steps in Wire Localisation:

Preparation:

• Patient changes into a hospital gown.