Octopus arms: A phenomenological study on radiotherapy experiences of patients with lung cancer

Describing radiotherapy experiences of patients with lung cancer is essential for early recognition and effective management of these side effects. This study was conducted to describe the radiotherapy experiences of patients with lung cancer.

A descriptive phenomenological approach was used in the study. A total of 26 patients with lung cancer were included. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in the radiation oncology unit of a university hospital between April and September 2024. Data were analyzed using descriptive and thematic analysis. The study was prepared in accordance with the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist.

Six themes emerged from interviews of 26 patients with lung cancer: daily life activities arm, physical arm, psychological arm, social arm, economic arm, and meaning of RT. Of these six themes, only the "psychological arm" theme contained subthemes. These were a) trust in healthcare professionals, b) hope, c) mood change and d) faithful acceptance. This qualitative study, based on six themes, provides comprehensive data that allows us to better understand the radiotherapy experiences of patients with lung cancer.

The study revealed that radiotherapy experiences of patients with lung cancer were complex, involving changes in daily life activities as well as physical, psychological, social, and economic aspects. It is recommended that all healthcare professionals, especially nurses, constantly consider that the RT experiences of patients with lung cancer may be multifaceted and affect them in different aspects. It is also recommended that healthcare professionals plan early programs to address the needs of patients.