Anne Arber1, Lesley Spencer. 1. School of Health and Social Care, University of Surrey, Duke of Kent Building, Guildford, Surrey, UK. A.Arber@surrey.ac.uk
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This study explores patient's experience during the first 3 months following a diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma. METHODS: This study uses a grounded theory approach with semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with 10 patients during the first 3 months following diagnosis. RESULTS: The key concept that emerged from the data was this: Uncertainty and lack of control leading to emotional, physical and psychosocial distress. Three themes informed the key concept: ' it's all bad news', 'good and bad days' and strategies of amelioration. Patients worked with a short-term perspective on their illness but worried about the long-term outcome and the speed of their deterioration. CONCLUSIONS: Patients receive insufficient psychosocial support during the first 3 months following diagnosis. An early palliative care referral would improve support and referral strategies during the first 3 months of the disease.
OBJECTIVE: This study explores patient's experience during the first 3 months following a diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma. METHODS: This study uses a grounded theory approach with semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with 10 patients during the first 3 months following diagnosis. RESULTS: The key concept that emerged from the data was this: Uncertainty and lack of control leading to emotional, physical and psychosocial distress. Three themes informed the key concept: ' it's all bad news', 'good and bad days' and strategies of amelioration. Patients worked with a short-term perspective on their illness but worried about the long-term outcome and the speed of their deterioration. CONCLUSIONS:Patients receive insufficient psychosocial support during the first 3 months following diagnosis. An early palliative care referral would improve support and referral strategies during the first 3 months of the disease.
Authors: Roma Maguire; John Connaghan; Anne Arber; Naomi Klepacz; Kevin G Blyth; John McPhelim; Paul Murray; Hitasha Rupani; Anoop Chauhan; Peter Williams; Laura McNaughton; Kirstie Woods; Anne Moylan Journal: J Med Internet Res Date: 2020-11-12 Impact factor: 5.428