PURPOSE: To describe the cancer care process as it is perceived by women with ovarian cancer. PARTICIPANTS & SETTING: 18 English-speaking adult women with ovarian cancer were recruited from an advocacy organization for patients with ovarian cancer and the gynecologic oncology clinic at a community-based teaching hospital in Burlington, Massachusetts. METHODOLOGIC APPROACH: A grounded theory approach was used. Data were collected via individual interviews with participants. FINDINGS: An overarching theme of preserving oneself in the face of uncertainty was described by the participants. Trajectories from prediagnosis to treatment were influenced by the quality of patient-provider communication, support from significant others, and self-concept aspects. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Comprehensive care that validates patient concerns and supports information exchange is essential. Nurses can promote the physical and psychological well-being of women with ovarian cancer by identifying institutional and community-based resources for support and specialty care.
PURPOSE: To describe the cancer care process as it is perceived by women with ovarian cancer. PARTICIPANTS & SETTING: 18 English-speaking adult women with ovarian cancer were recruited from an advocacy organization for patients with ovarian cancer and the gynecologic oncology clinic at a community-based teaching hospital in Burlington, Massachusetts. METHODOLOGIC APPROACH: A grounded theory approach was used. Data were collected via individual interviews with participants. FINDINGS: An overarching theme of preserving oneself in the face of uncertainty was described by the participants. Trajectories from prediagnosis to treatment were influenced by the quality of patient-provider communication, support from significant others, and self-concept aspects. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Comprehensive care that validates patient concerns and supports information exchange is essential. Nurses can promote the physical and psychological well-being of women with ovarian cancer by identifying institutional and community-based resources for support and specialty care.