The Needs and Care Experiences of Adolescents and Young Adults Treated for Cancer in Adult Surgery Clinics: A Qualitative Study

Anne Marie Roholm Olesen, Malene Missel, Kirsten A Boisen

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3 Citationer (Scopus)

Abstract

Purpose: Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer hospitalized in adult surgery clinics are an overlooked group of patients. They are a minority hospitalized among elderly surgical patients, and the surroundings and care are designed with older patients in mind. A growing body of research focuses on AYAs' experiences of cancer care. However, studies exploring care experiences in terms of in-patient surgery treatment are still needed. Hence, the purpose of the study was to explore the needs and care experiences of AYAs, 15-29 years of age, treated for cancer in adult surgery clinics. Methods: This qualitative study was based on semistructured interviews with 15 AYAs with cancer from seven surgery clinics at Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark. Data were analyzed and interpreted using inductive content analysis. The Danish Data Protection Agency approved the study (project no.: 05617). Results: Three themes were identified: (1) being the black sheep - experiences of being young in an adult environment, (2) the significant nurse - experiences of the essential relationship between AYAs and the nurses, and (3) the wounded body - experiences of how the physically changed body affects the mind. Conclusions: Our findings showed that the psychosocial needs of AYAs with cancer hospitalized in adult surgery clinics were not being adequately met. Initiatives are needed to improve the psychological and social well-being of this vulnerable patient group, while hospitalized for treatment in surgery clinics.

OriginalsprogEngelsk
TidsskriftJournal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology
Vol/bind11
Udgave nummer1
Sider (fra-til)48-55
Antal sider8
ISSN2156-5333
DOI
StatusUdgivet - feb. 2022
Udgivet eksterntJa

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