Mairin O'Mahony1, Josephine Hegarty. 1. School of Nursing and Midwifery in the Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, University College in Cork, Ireland. mairin.omahony@ucc.ie
Abstract
PURPOSE/ OBJECTIVES: To define help seeking and identify a theoretical framework to explain the help-seeking process of patients with self-discovered cancer symptoms. DATA SOURCES: Literature published in English from 1998-2008. DATA SYNTHESIS: Findings highlighted gender's role in help-seeking behavior. Delayed help seeking for cancer symptoms was common, with many associated influencing factors. To date, research on intentions to seek help has facilitated the development of health-promotion programs that target those who are likely to delay. CONCLUSIONS: Help seeking was defined as a response to health changes as well as a part of the broader process of health-seeking behavior. Reviewed frameworks and models provided knowledge and understanding about help-seeking behavior in various contexts. However, an all-encompassing framework explaining the entire process was not identified. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Nurses are in a unique position to promote prompt help seeking for patients with self-discovered cancer symptoms. Gaining clarity on the concept and identifying a theoretical framework may help nurses understand the complex nature of help seeking in patients with self-discovered cancer symptoms.
PURPOSE/ OBJECTIVES: To define help seeking and identify a theoretical framework to explain the help-seeking process of patients with self-discovered cancer symptoms. DATA SOURCES: Literature published in English from 1998-2008. DATA SYNTHESIS: Findings highlighted gender's role in help-seeking behavior. Delayed help seeking for cancer symptoms was common, with many associated influencing factors. To date, research on intentions to seek help has facilitated the development of health-promotion programs that target those who are likely to delay. CONCLUSIONS: Help seeking was defined as a response to health changes as well as a part of the broader process of health-seeking behavior. Reviewed frameworks and models provided knowledge and understanding about help-seeking behavior in various contexts. However, an all-encompassing framework explaining the entire process was not identified. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Nurses are in a unique position to promote prompt help seeking for patients with self-discovered cancer symptoms. Gaining clarity on the concept and identifying a theoretical framework may help nurses understand the complex nature of help seeking in patients with self-discovered cancer symptoms.
Authors: Gill Hubbard; Iona Macmillan; Anne Canny; Liz Forbat; Richard D Neal; Ronan E O'Carroll; Sally Haw; Richard G Kyle Journal: BMC Public Health Date: 2014-10-29 Impact factor: 3.295
Authors: Ryan J Courtney; Christine L Paul; Robert W Sanson-Fisher; Finlay A Macrae; John Attia; Mark McEvoy Journal: BMC Gastroenterol Date: 2012-08-03 Impact factor: 3.067