For Patients & Families
Patient & Family Resources
Everything you need to feel prepared, informed, and supported — before, during, and after your Prostatectomy.
Inspired by one family's prostate cancer journey,
SWIT-PCa is dedicated to helping patients and caregivers navigate treatment with confidence.
Getting Started
Patients & Families Resource Center
A prostate cancer diagnosis can bring uncertainty, questions, and difficult decisions for both patients and their loved ones. Whether you are newly diagnosed, preparing for surgery, recovering after treatment, or supporting someone you care about, you are not alone.
The Southwest Institute for Infusion Therapy and Cancer Care (SWIT-PCa) created this resource center to provide practical, evidence-based information that helps patients and families navigate the prostate cancer journey with greater confidence and understanding.
Here you will find downloadable guides, checklists, educational resources, caregiver tools, and questions to discuss with your healthcare team. Our goal is to help you prepare, make informed decisions, and feel supported every step of the way.
This initiative was inspired by our family's own experience with prostate cancer and our commitment to helping others facing similar challenges. Through education, awareness, and support, we hope to empower patients and caregivers with the knowledge they need to advocate for their health and improve their quality of life.
Remember: every patient's journey is unique. The information provided on this website is intended for educational purposes and should not replace the advice of your healthcare providers. Always consult your physician regarding medical decisions and treatment recommendations.
We are honored to be part of your journey.
What do I bring with me to the hospital?
- Photo ID and insurance card(s)
- List of all current medications
- Prior medical records & imaging
- Referral paperwork (if applicable)
- List of questions for your care team
- A trusted family member or friend
Before Your Surgery
- Attend all preoperative appointments and complete any required testing.
- Review your medications and supplements with your healthcare team and follow instructions about what to stop before surgery.
- Prepare your home for recovery by creating a comfortable resting area and removing tripping hazards.
- Gather recovery supplies including side-snap pants, slip-on shoes, a thermometer, and Foley catheter supplies.
- Stock your kitchen with healthy foods and fluids to support healing and help prevent constipation.
- Arrange transportation and caregiver support for surgery day and the first few days at home.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Don't see your question here? Contact us via email — we're happy to help.
Patient Resources
Free Patient & Caregiver Resources
Download free, nurse-developed guides to help patients and caregivers prepare for prostatectomy, recover with confidence, and navigate prostate cancer treatment.
Prostatectomy Preparation Checklist
Know what to expect before surgery. This comprehensive checklist helps patients and caregivers prepare for prostatectomy with practical guidance on supplies, medications, home preparation, and recovery planning.
Guide to Foley Catheter Care After Prostatectomy
Your step-by-step guide to caring for a Foley catheter at home. Learn daily catheter care, drainage bag management, comfort tips, and when to contact your healthcare team.
Medication Guide & Tracker
After Prostatectomy
Organize your medications during recovery. Track your daily medications, pain medicine, and medication schedule to help support a safe recovery after prostatectomy.
SWIT-PCa is expanding its free educational resource library.
New evidence-informed guides and recovery tools are being developed to support patients and caregivers throughout every stage of the prostate cancer journey.
Future resources include:
- First 24 Hours After Catheter Removal
- Walking & Recovery Guide
- Pelvic Floor Recovery Guide
- Caregiver Guide
- Medication & Recovery Tracker
Help Keep These Resources Free
Every resource on this website is provided at no cost. Donations help SWIT-PCa continue creating evidence-based educational materials for patients and caregivers.
Donate