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Nursing Students' Perspectives on Assisting Cancer Patients
Sevgisun Kapucu1, Hulya Deniz Bulut2
1Department of Internal Diseases Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
Asia-Pacific Journal of Oncology Nursing
|January 31, 2018
Summary
Student nurses found caring for cancer patients challenging, often experiencing difficulties with patient acceptance, complex cases, and emotional distress. Enhanced support and curriculum adjustments are recommended for student nurses in oncology settings.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Education
- Oncology Nursing
- Qualitative Research
Background:
- Student nurses provide care to diverse patient populations, including those with cancer.
- The unique challenges of oncology nursing require specific preparation and support for students.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experiences of student nurses caring for cancer patients.
- To identify specific difficulties and emotional responses encountered by student nurses in oncology settings.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods approach combining semistructured focus groups (n=61) and survey questionnaires (n=129).
- Qualitative data analyzed thematically, with frequency and percentage used for quantitative findings.
Main Results:
- 80.6% of student nurses reported difficulties in caring for cancer patients.
- Common challenges included patient rejection of care, complex cases, communication issues, and family interference.
- Student nurses experienced emotional responses like pity (71.1%), sadness (50.0%), and fear of cancer (41.9%).
Conclusions:
- Student nurses require enhanced support from instructors and oncology nurses.
- Nursing curricula should integrate specific modules on approaching and caring for cancer patients.