Lived Experiences of Adult Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy Treatment at University of Gondar Specialized Hospital, North West Ethiopia, 2021

Abstract

Cancer is a global public health problem and it exposes patients with a wide range of physical, psychological, social, and financial problems. Experiences, feelings and thoughts patients have during the course of the disease are the determining factors of disease management. However, most of the studies analyzing cancer patients’ experiences have been performed only in high-income countries and the situation for cancer patients in Ethiopia is largely unknown. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of adult cancer patients undergoing Chemotherapy treatment at University of Gondar specialized Hospital, Ethiopia. A phenomenological study design was conducted among adult cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment at University of Gondar specialized Hospital. In-depth interview was conducted with 13 participants by using purposive sampling technique from March 15 to April 15, 2021. The data collection process facilitated by using semi-structured Amharic interview guide. After transcription and translation, data were analyzed by using a thematic analysis method. The ATLAS.ti software version 9 was used for coding and categorization. The result was reported using narrative and mentioned indirect quotation. The findings of the study revealed four main themes: “psychological discomfort,” “functional status impairment,” “experiences about chemotherapy treatment,” and “coping mechanism.” The findings revealed that being diagnosed with cancer is the most traumatic experience and affect all aspect of a patient life. Despite the side effects, the treatment gives hope for a new life. Social and spiritual supports have importance in coping the negative effects of living with cancer. Therefore, health care providers should provide psychosocial care to cancer patients from there diagnosis and in there treatment in dealing with this difficult process.