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BREAST care nurse Julie Humphreys provides hope to cancer patients in their darkest days.

Ms Humphreys works in Werribee Mercy Hospital's ambulatory care unit which provides treatment, including chemotherapy, as well as pre- and post-operation support and information for cancer patients.

About 16 patients come through its doors each year and about a third of them are women with breast cancer.

"When they first arrive, we sit down with them and go over the details of their procedure," she said.

"We tell them what they can expect and go over the services which are available.

"If they've already had surgery, we help organise prosthetics and the fitted bras.

"The treatment can be a long and drawn-out process and it has a devastating effect not only on the person but also their family and friends."

Although many patients make a full recovery, Ms Humphreys said some fought unsuccessful battles.

All of its nurses have received training at the Peter Mac Cancer Centre and through the Cancer Council Victoria's Living With Cancer program.

"When they're at the end stage, we'll try to improve their quality of life, and we'll often attend their funerals," she said.

"Emotionally, it's very difficult, but the next patient will come along and it will be a positive outcome.

"We try to be there for our patients and to make their journey as comfortable as possible."

The unit's nurse manager, Leanne Winder, said its patients were referred from St Vincent's Hospital in Melbourne.

"Our service allows patients to receive their treatment close to home," she said.

"Some chemotherapy treatments take place three days in a row, so it makes it difficult if they have to travel back and forward from the city."