Patient Initiated Follow-up (PIFU) Endometrial Malignancies
Date issued: August 2023
Review date: August 2025
Ref: D-360/NC/Oncology/Patient Initiated follow-up PIFU v2
PDF: Patient Initiated follow up PIFU final August 2023 v2.pdf [pdf] 196KB
Now that you have completed your cancer treatment you have been referred into Patient Initiated Follow-up, sometimes known as PIFU. Instead of having regular follow-up hospital appointments, you will be able to contact us when or if you need to discuss any worries or concerns you may have. It is important for you to know that very few recurrences are picked up at a clinic appointment alone, it is more likely that you will know if your cancer has come back due to the symptoms you are experiencing. Reporting signs, symptoms and concerns early means that they can be addressed more quickly.
When should I call?
You should telephone us if:
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You have any symptoms that you are worried about, causing you to think your cancer may have returned
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You have ongoing problems or side effects after your treatment; or
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You need emotional support
What symptoms should I look out for?
There are common symptoms that can occur if your cancer returns. It is important to remember that we can all experience some of these symptoms from time to time, and it does not necessarily mean that your cancer has returned. Depending on the site of your cancer and the treatment you received, symptoms may include:
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Vaginal bleeding/discharge
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Persistent abdominal bloating
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Persistent pelvic/tummy pains
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New or persistent bowel or bladder symptoms
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Unexplained weight loss/appetite changes
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Persistent tiredness
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Persistent swelling in one leg
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New persistent cough or shortness of breath for more than 4 weeks duration
Your feelings
It is normal to feel emotional for a while after treatment has ended, and recovery can take time. You can call your Clinical Nurse Specialist to discuss anything that is worrying you such as:
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Low mood, feelings of isolation
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Sexual concerns
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Financial worries
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Problems relating to your diagnosis or treatment
When should I contact my GP?
It is important to still remember that you will get coughs and colds like everyone else. You can still see your GP for any concerns. If the GP is concerned they can contact your Clinical Nurse Specialist who will arrange for you to see one of the team.
What happens when I call my Clinical Nurse Specialist?
When you call your Clinical Nurse Specialist, they will discuss your concerns with you and then recommend one of the following:
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A clinic appointment to see us at the hospital within 2-4 weeks
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For you to make an appointment with your GP
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Reassure you that no further action is needed
Contact details
Please call your Clinical Nurse Specialists:
Nikki Calder, Emma Cooper and Stephanie Tunnicliff on 01752 437296 (answerphone available)
We are available:
Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 4pm
Friday 8.30am to 3pm (not weekends or bank holidays)
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Your personal details
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Name:
Hospital Number:
Diagnosis:
Date of diagnosis:
Surgical treatment:
Date of surgery:
Radiotherapy treatment:
Date of radiotherapy:
Surgeon:
Oncologist:
Clinical Nurse Specialist:
