A transition out of the darkness: Patients? experience of the recovery phase after treatment for head and neck cancer

• Purpose: To explore the recovery experience of patients who completed medical treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC). Method: The study conducted interviews with a strategic sample of 12 patients at an oncology clinic. Interview data were analyzed by qualitative content analysis with a deductive approach based on transition theory. Results: The transition theory coding frame for patients? descriptions of their recovery process produced four categories: properties, personal conditions, process indicators, and outcome indicators. Personal conditions, such as cultural beliefs and attitudes, impact the outcome of recovery, and necessitate interaction throughout the care chain using the person-centered care approach to help survivors master their changed living conditions during recovery after HNC. The transition was described as a journey out of a dark period characterized by a struggle with the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Conclusions: This study highlighted the use of person-centered care to facilitate transition in the recovery phase, supported by an intra-professional team that collaborates during the care chain (primary care to hospital care). Patient education and self-care are tools that improve the transition from illness to everyday life.

Subject headings

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Cancer och onkologi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Cancer and Oncology (hsv//eng)

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Hälsovetenskap -- Omvårdnad (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Health Sciences -- Nursing (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Head and neck cancer

Patients? experiences

Person-centered care

Qualitative content analysis

Recovery phase

Teamwork

Transition

theory

Oncology

Nursing

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)