Information needs of women with non-invasive breast cancer

• The purpose of this inquiry was to gain a better understanding of the experience of women who have had surgery for non-invasive breast cancer. In particular, issues surrounding information were explored. • Six women who had undergone surgery for a non-invasive breast cancer (ductal carcinoma in situ or DCIS) participated in the research and an interpretive approach was used to guide the research process. • In-depth interviews took place in the women's homes and the interviews were transcribed verbatim. • Through a process of familiarization with the tapes and transcripts, clusters of significant statements were assembled into individual stories of each woman's experience. • The findings highlight the individual nature of the experience of information, with the women wanting information that is tailored to their personal needs. • Nurses can provide care that is more responsive to the information needs of each woman by being aware of the diverse ways in which women experience information. • This small study contributes to the limited understanding of the experience of having surgery for ductal carcinoma in situ and the information needs of these women.