Patient Resources

Patient Resources

The Bass Breast Center offers several resources for breast cancer patients:

• Breast Nurse Navigator to guide women on their journey while providing support and answering questions during a very difficult and unsure time.
• KRH Cancer Support & Survivorship is located close to Kalispell Regional Medical Center and provides a full range of support services for youth and adults affected by cancer. Activities are completely free of charge and intended to help heal and strengthen those impacted by cancer. Anyone diagnosed with cancer and their loved ones is welcome to attend our active programs.
• Glacier Bosom Buddies, a group of mentors composed of breast cancer survivors and family members in Northwest Montana who provide a special perspective to patients and families just beginning and continuing through the breast cancer journey.
• Save-A-Sister^TM, a non-profit organization that helps provide access to mammograms and supports post-operative durable goods that often are not paid for by insurance.

The following patient information sections are provided to help patients through their recovery process:

Breast Surgery - Patient Care Instructions

Cancer care does not end when active treatment has finished or when surgery is complete. Your care team as Bass Breast Center will continue to check to monitor your healing, manage any side effects, and keep an eye on your overall health. This is called follow-up care. This follow-up care may include physical examinations, medical tests, or both. We want to keep track of your recovery in the months and years ahead. 

Below you'll find more information about breast surgery post-operative care. Click on the small icon to open or download a Word doc you can print at home or save to your device.

 

POST-SURGERY INSTRUCTIONS - click here to view document, print or download
This includes suggestions for managing pain, when to contact your health care provider or resuming activities.  

DRAIN CARE - click here to view document, print or download
This information includes tips and advice to avoid fluid build-up under the skin which affects the ability for your incision to heal. Hygiene and other infection control information is also included. 

EXERCISES AFTER BREAST SURGERY -  click here to view document, print or download
This document includes some specific exercises for post-op breast surgery patients. Be sure to initiate an active exercise program only when cleared to do so by your physician! 

LYMPHEDEMA - click here to view document, print or download
Lymphedema is abnormal swelling that can develop in the arm, hand, breast, or torso as a side effect of breast cancer surgery and/or radiation therapy. Learn more about this condition so you can be aware of signs and symptoms should they occur. 

SURVIVORSHIP
Your care is not only the physical part. The mental, social and emotional impacts can also require attention. We encourage you to check out KRH Cancer Support & Survivorship services. This program provides free activities that complement traditional medical care for cancer. These include support groups, nutrition, exercise, education and more. Family and friends are welcome to participate in most gatherings.