Caring Through Pain: Indonesian Families’ Experiences During Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer Patients

Retnaningsih, Dwi; Nursalam, Nursalam; Nihayati, Hanik Endang; Efendy, Ferry; Kristiawati, Kristiawati; Alfiyanti, Dera

doi:10.31557/APJCP.2026.27.6.2079

Caring Through Pain: Indonesian Families’ Experiences During Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer Patients

Document Type : Research Articles

Authors

¹ Nursing Study Program, Universitas Widya Husada Semarang, Semarang, Indonesia.

² Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia.

³ Nursing Program, Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Semarang, Semarang, Indonesia.

10.31557/APJCP.2026.27.6.2079

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to explore the lived experiences of families caring for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, focusing on the multidimensional impacts and coping mechanisms in the Indonesian cultural context. Method: Using Van Manen’s hermeneutic phenomenological approach, this qualitative study involved 20 family members of breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy at a government hospital in Semarang, Indonesia. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews, supported by field notes and demographic questionnaires. Thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo software and Colaizzi’s method to extract key themes and subthemes. Results: Four major themes emerged: (1) information on the impact of chemotherapy, which included physical, psychological, and socioeconomic changes experienced by patients and observed by families; (2) unpreparedness to face side effects, revealing families’ confusion and emotional responses due to a lack of knowledge; (3) The need for adequate information and support, highlighting the demand for clear communication and psychological guidance from healthcare providers; and (4) Hope and the meaning of being a caregiver, in which families found renewed strength, spiritual growth, and purpose throughout the caregiving journey. These findings highlight the complex emotional and social dynamics that families encounter during the cancer treatment process. Conclusions: Chemotherapy has a profound impact not only on patients but also on their families. A lack of preparedness and insufficient support intensify emotional and practical burdens. Therefore, a culturally sensitive, family-centered nursing intervention is crucial to enhance family resilience, ensure effective caregiving, and improve overall quality of life during cancer treatment in developing countries. Such culturally sensitive, family-centered nursing support is essential to strengthen caregiver resilience, reduce burden, and improve the quality of life for both patients and families during chemotherapy.

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