Aspects of patient care. Interviews with relapse-free testicular cancer patients in Stockholm.

Thirty-nine relapse-free testicular cancer patients were interviewed 1-6 years after completion of chemotherapy, in connection with a study of conditioned nausea. Some structured questions about experiences of diagnosis and treatment were included, but this report also summarizes spontaneously given information. The patients' first contact with a treatment setting appears to be an important determinant of the overall treatment experience. If resources are limited, they are used effectively if concentrated during the initial contact with the patient. Support from relatives and friends was reported as good for 90% of the men during treatment. Thirty-two distressing factors during the treatment period were mentioned; the most severe were nausea and vomiting. Other high-ranking factors were "being restricted for the infusion" and "the smell of food." There is a need for flexibility in ways to prepare and serve food on the ward. Some men argued for more information concerning the disease and chemotherapy; others said they received too much information. Several men suggested that a debriefing talk with the physician and someone from the staff should be arranged 6 months to 1 year after completion of treatment.