The Cancer Experience

Abstract

This study investigated the meaning of the cancer experience for 44 individuals receiving outpatient radiotherapy. In interviews conducted immediately before treatment was initiated and after its completion, patients were asked to describe what having cancer had been like for them. Their responses were read and coded as “Accepting,” “Coping,” or “Experiencing emotional trauma.” Whereas 26 patients were categorized as “Accepting” or “Coping” at the initial interview, 25 were placed in the “Experiencing emotional trauma” category after treatment was completed. The authors concluded that nurses and other health care professionals need to recognize the emotional as well as physical ramifications of the treatment experience and help patients cope with these Stressors.