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How do tangible supports impact the breast cancer experience?
Karen B Hirschman1, Joretha N Bourjolly
1School of Nursing, Institute on Aging, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104, USA. hirschk@nursing.upenn.edu
Social Work in Health Care
|July 29, 2005
Summary
Tangible support aids breast cancer patients in managing daily roles. This study explored how physical assistance impacts women navigating their patient journey, highlighting its importance for role adaptation.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nursing
- Sociology
Background:
- Breast cancer diagnosis significantly impacts a woman's life roles.
- Social support is crucial for patients adapting to their illness.
- Tangible support, a form of physical assistance, helps individuals meet responsibilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the impact of tangible support on women with breast cancer.
- To understand how physical assistance influences role function during illness.
- To apply the Roy Adaptation Model to conceptualize support needs.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study utilizing open-ended interviews.
- 33 women diagnosed with breast cancer participated.
- Explored experiences related to role function and tangible support.
Main Results:
- Women described various ways tangible support affected their ability to manage roles.
- The type and extent of physical assistance influenced their adaptation process.
- Experiences highlighted the practical needs of breast cancer patients.
Conclusions:
- Tangible support is a vital component of care for breast cancer patients.
- Addressing practical needs is essential for maintaining role function.
- The Roy Adaptation Model provides a useful framework for understanding patient support.