Use this URL to cite or link to this record in EThOS: https://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.668088
Title: A qualitative investigation of the experiences of women with breast cancer between surgery and adjuvant therapy
Author: McAllister, Lauren
ISNI:       0000 0004 5365 2264
Awarding Body: University of Glasgow
Current Institution: University of Glasgow
Date of Award: 2015
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Abstract:
Objectives: The aim of this paper was to explore the experiences of women with breast cancer in the period between surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy. It also aimed to explore their perceptions of communicating with the professionals involved in their care, and their expectations of adjuvant treatment. Design: Qualitative data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews. Methods: Five women were interviewed following surgery and prior to starting adjuvant treatment. Two women were scheduled to receive chemotherapy and three to receive radiotherapy. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Results: Four themes were identified: uncertainty about adjuvant treatment, adjustment to cancer, knowing enough, and relationships with healthcare professionals. Conclusion: The period between surgery and adjuvant treatment was characterised by uncertainty. This may be adaptive at this point, as it allowed women to maintain hope in the face of potentially unpleasant treatments. Women also continued to adjust to their diagnosis. They wanted to know enough about treatment to prepare themselves, but did not want to be overwhelmed. Women emphasised their own agency in managing information. Healthcare professionals were viewed as a trustworthy source of information, and these relationships supported women's coping in this time period. This study underscores the importance of responding flexibly to women's information and communication needs during treatment.
Supervisor: Not available Sponsor: Not available
Qualification Name: Thesis (D.Clin.Psy.) Qualification Level: Doctoral
EThOS ID: uk.bl.ethos.668088  DOI: Not available
Keywords: BF Psychology
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