Patient’s perspective of cancer treatment and care in Vhembe district of Limpopo Province

2^nd International Conference on Nursing & Healthcare

November 17-19, 2014 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chicago-North Shore Conference Center, USA

Dorah Ursula Ramathuba, Ramutumbu Neo Jacqueline and Ndou N D

Posters: J Nurs Care

Abstract :

The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of patients diagnosed with cancer in Vhembe district, Limpopo Province. A qualitative research design which was exploratory, descriptive was used. The aim of the study was to add to the knowledge and understanding of the complex human phenomena. A purposive theoretical sample of 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. 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. Recommendations that are described focused on 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.

Biography :

Dorah Ursula Ramathuba completed her doctoral studies in 2011 at North-West University. She is a Senior lecturer at the University of Venda. She has published articles in accredited journals. Her areas of specialty are oncology nursing and women sexual health.