Experiences and coping strategies of oncology patients undergoing oral chemotherapy: First steps of a grounded theory study

Abstract Purpose Chemotherapies are increasingly available for oral application. Previous studies have focussed on differences between orally and intravenously administered chemotherapies, mostly following quantitative designs surveying patients’ preferences and adherence. The lived experience of pa...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inEuropean journal of oncology nursing : the official journal of European Oncology Nursing Society Vol. 23; pp. 106 - 114
Main Authors Gassmann, Catherine, Kolbe, Nina, Brenner, Andrea
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Scotland Elsevier Ltd 01.08.2016
Subjects
Adaptation, Psychological
Administration, Oral
Adult
Aged
Antineoplastic Agents - administration & dosage
Emotions
Experiences
Female
Grounded Theory
Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Medicine
Humans
Male
Medication Adherence
Middle Aged
Neoplasms - drug therapy
Neoplasms - psychology
Oncology nursing
Oral chemotherapy
Patient Preference
Strategies
Surveys and Questionnaires
Switzerland
Grounded theory
Oncology nursing
Oral chemotherapy
Experiences
Strategies
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Summary:Abstract Purpose Chemotherapies are increasingly available for oral application. Previous studies have focussed on differences between orally and intravenously administered chemotherapies, mostly following quantitative designs surveying patients’ preferences and adherence. The lived experience of patients undergoing oral chemotherapy has been rarely explored. Therefore, this study investigates how patients experience oral chemotherapy. Method We conducted open interviews with six patients and two spouses. Recruitment took place in the outpatient clinic of an urban Swiss hospital. Data collection and analysis followed the principles of Straussian grounded theory. Results The participants reported physical and emotional reluctance towards oral chemotherapy as well as toxic side effects. Feeling responsible emerged as a core phenomenon. All participants intended to adhere to the therapy although this was challenging because of the complex medication regimen. Belief in the effectiveness of the therapy was a strengthening factor. Conclusions All participants reported to be highly adherent to oral chemotherapy. Although they experienced some toxic side effects, they did not react. Monitoring toxicities and support in everyday life should be a core feature of care.
Bibliography:ObjectType-Article-2
SourceType-Scholarly Journals-1
ObjectType-Feature-1
content type line 23
ISSN:1462-3889
1532-2122
DOI:10.1016/j.ejon.2016.06.001