A qualitative study of the post-treatment experiences and support needs of survivors of lymphoma

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Title

European Journal of Oncology Nursing

Publisher

Elsevier

School

School of Nursing and Midwifery

RAS ID

26523

Comments

Monterosso, L., Taylor, K., Platt, V., Lobb, E., Krishnasamy, M., Musiello, T., . . . Joske, D. (2017). A qualitative study of the post-treatment experiences and support needs of survivors of lymphoma. European Journal of Oncology Nursing, 28, 62-68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejon.2017.03.002

Abstract

Purpose

To explore the post-treatment experiences and preferences for follow-up support of lymphoma survivors.

Methods

Two focus groups were conducted with 17 participants to explore informational, psychological, emotional, social, practical and physical needs, 6–30 months post-treatment for lymphoma. Perceptions regarding a potential model of survivorship care were also elicited.

Results

Thematic content analysis revealed five key themes: Information; Loss and uncertainty; Family, support and post-treatment experience; Transition, connectivity and normalcy, and Person-centred post-treatment care. Participants described a sense of loss as they transitioned away from regular interaction with the hospital at the end of treatment, but also talked about the need to find a “new normal”. Establishing post-treatment support structures that can provide individualised information, support, reassurance and referrals to community and peer support were identified as a helpful way to navigate the transition from patient to post-treatment survivor.

Conclusions

Participants in our study articulated a need for a flexible approach to survivorship care, providing opportunities for individuals to access different types of support at different times post-treatment. Specialist post-treatment nurse care coordinators working across acute and community settings may offer one effective model of post-treatment support for survivors of haematological malignancies.

DOI

10.1016/j.ejon.2017.03.002

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