EXPLORING WOMEN’S EXPERIENCES AFTER BREAST CANCER DIAGNOSIS. A QUALITATIVE STUDY
Fotini Vardaramatou, Alexia Tsesmeli , Sofia Koukouli, Michael Rovithis, Maria Moudatsou, Aret Stavropoulou
Thursday, April 1, 2021
Publication year:
2021
Authors:
- Vardaramatou Fotini, Department of Nursing, Hellenic Mediterranean University
- Tsesmeli Alexia, Department of Social Work, Quality of Life Lab, Hellenic Mediterranean University
- Koukouli Sofia, Department of Social Work, Quality of Life Lab, Hellenic Mediterranean University
- Rovithis Michael , Department of Nursing, Quality of Life Lab, Hellenic Mediterranean University
- Moudatsou Maria, Centre of Mental Health Heraklion Crete, Department of Social Work Quality of Life Lab, Hellenic Mediterranean University
- Stavropoulou Aret, Department of Nursing, University of West Attica
Keywords index:
- breast cancer
- uncertainty
- coping strategies
- adaptation
- quality nursing interventions
- qualitative study
Pages: 193-207
Abstract:
Introduction: Breast cancer diagnosis brings to women’s life massive change that lead to a plethora of emotions such as uncertainty, fear of disease progression and inability to adjust to the new situation. These appear to play a pivotal role in life and reintegration for women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. Aim: To explore the experience of women who were diagnosed with breast cancer. Methods: A qualitative research design was applied using a purposive sampling technique. Data collection was conducted through semi-structured face to face interviews. Content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data and establish main themes and subthemes. Ten women who were diagnosed with breast cancer participated in the study. Findings: Content analysis revealed three main themes namely, “uncertainty”, “coping strategies” and “adaptation mechanisms”. Women’s experiences were conceptualized into sub-themes within each main theme. Findings revealed a continuum from uncertainty to coping strategies and adaptation that women reflected through exploration of their experiences. Uncertainty was managed through various coping approaches that helped women to adjust. Coping strategies that involve conscious self-isolation, support and motivation may gradually lead to adaptation and positive outcomes such as empowerment, self-development, meaningful living and “rebirth” . Conclusion: Findings may enhance nurses’ knowledge regarding adaptation and coping strategies after breast cancer diagnosis. They further contribute to the implementation of efficient and quality interventions and help women with breast cancer to cope, adapt and remediate effectively.
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