Concerns of families in which one member has head and neck cancer

This descriptive/exploratory study examined the concerns of families of patients with head and neck cancer. A convenience sample from a metropolitan hospital included four families. Data were collected through semistructured interviews, observations, and chart reviews over three time periods (before treatment, during treatment, and during rehabilitation) over a period of 5 months. Analysis of data showed five major types of concerns: cancer and its meaning, social relations, experience with hospitalization, treatment, and future placement. Findings showed that the types of concerns related to head and neck cancer are perceived as threatening and harmful. Concerns among patients were different from those of their family members across the different time periods. Our findings are useful in helping nurses understand the experience of head and neck cancer from the perspectives of the patient and their family members, and impact on their successful adjustment.