Revista de Enfermagem e Cuidados

Patients' Perspective Of Cancer Treatment And Care In Vhembe District Of Limpopo Province

Abstract

Dorah Ursula Ramathuba, Ramutumbu Neo Jacqueline and Ndou ND

Objective: The study explored and described the experiences of patients diagnosed with cancer in Vhembe district, Limpopo Province. A qualitative research design which was phenomenological, exploratory, descriptive was used. The aim of the study was to add to the knowledge and understanding of the complex human phenomena. Methods: A purposive theoretical sample of twelve patients who were diagnosed with different cancers within 2-5 years in a regional hospital in Vhembe district of Limpopo Province was obtained. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with eight participants who were in remission phase or undergoing treatment. Data saturation occurred after in-depth interviews with eight participants, field notes were also used during data collection. Results: The findings revealed that cancer patients experienced poor communication and attitudes, experienced body changes, sense of withdrawal and depression and problems with follow-up care. Conclusions: Understanding the cultural perspective of what it is like to have cancer and filling the gaps of patient’s expectations and addressing emotional and physical needs.