A qualitative study of family caregivers' experiences in caring for breast cancer patients

In recent years, the approach to caring for patients with breast cancer has evolved significantly, moving towards more outpatient and family-centered models. Despite this positive shift, family caregivers often find it challenging to embrace their new roles. Many are actively seeking ways to prepare themselves for the responsibilities that come with caregiving. Therefore, the present study was conducted to explore and describe the experiences of family caregivers of patients with breast cancer regarding their readiness for caregiving and the facilitating factors associated with it. This qualitative study was conducted with 11 participants who were purposefully selected from among the family caregivers of breast cancer patients visiting selected oncology centers in Tabriz, Iran. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured individual interviews using an interview guide. Content analysis with a conventional approach was employed for data analysis. From the content analysis of the interviews with family caregivers, 216 codes, 20 sub-themes, and 5 main themes were extracted: "self-enhancement of knowledge", "self-soothing", "gradual enhancement of competence", "the role of healthcare personnel in empowering family caregivers" and "support and empathy as the pillars of care for patients with cancer". The results of the present study indicate the efforts of family caregivers to enhance their capabilities and readiness in caring for patients with breast cancer. The findings suggest that caregivers have employed strategies to accept this new responsibility and improve their competence in patient care, while the role of healthcare personnel in their preparation is not particularly prominent. The results of this study can serve as a basis for designing strategic programs in the country's healthcare systems and can help enhance the capabilities of family caregivers in providing quality care to patients.