Informational Needs of Patients with Cancer: A Qualitative Content Analysis

Document Type : Research Articles

Authors

Nursing Research Center, Razi Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.

Abstract

One of the most important needs of patients with cancer is informational needs. Getting relevant information about
the disease can lead to a proper decision making, better response to treatment, lower levels of anxiety, and higher levels
of quality of life. Therefore, the current study aimed to determine the informational needs of patients with cancer in
southeast Iran. Materials and Methods: This conventional qualitative content analysis was done using a descriptiveexplorative
design. Data collection was done through conducting deep semi-structured interviews from September
2017 to March 2018 in cancer treatment centers of Kerman University of Medical Science, Iran. Data saturation was
achieved after interviewing with 13 patients during 15 interviews. The patients were asked to narrate their experience
about informational needs of cancer patients. The following concepts were considered: the unit of analysis, meaning
unit, condensation, code, sub-category, category, and main category. Results: The results of the present study showed
that informational needs of these patients could be categorized under one main category called awareness-oriented
needs, including three subcategories. These subcategories included lack of knowledge about the nature of the disease,
inappropriate control of the disease due to lack of knowledge, and lack of knowledge about cancer treatment methods.
Conclusion: Results showed that patients with cancer tended to know what is the cancer and the ways of cancer
treatment and complications. Therefore, it is suggested to perform further studies cultivating the awareness of cancer
patients in these areas. Therefore So, It should be noted that designing and implementation of this needs assessment
provide a comprehensive way to consult and collaborate with health care professionals, patients, and their families.

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