Urothelial cancers: ureter, renal pelvis, and bladder.

OBJECTIVES

To review the diagnosis, treatment, and nursing management of patients with urothelial cancers.

DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Text books, and clinical experience.

CONCLUSION

Progress is being made in the surgical and systemic management of urothelial cancers, and the oncology nurse is in a position to make an impact on patient education and overall quality of life.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Nursing care begins at pre-diagnostic testing and continues through treatment for metastatic disease. Nurses must be knowledgeable about diagnostic tests, treatment options, and the quality-of-life implications of associated surgeries and/or treatments to support and guide patients. Education should be comprehensive, addressing not only treatment side effects but also long-term implications on patients' lives and lifestyles.