Experiences of Parents of Children with Cancer in the Diagnosis Process: A Qualitative Study

BEKAR P., ERKUL M., EFE E.

Omega (United States), 2024 (SSCI) identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Basım Tarihi: 2024
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1177/00302228241272694
  • Dergi Adı: Omega (United States)
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, ASSIA, IBZ Online, Periodicals Index Online, Abstracts in Social Gerontology, AgeLine, ATLA Religion Database, CINAHL, EBSCO Education Source, Education Abstracts, MLA - Modern Language Association Database, Psycinfo, Social services abstracts, Sociological abstracts, Violence & Abuse Abstracts
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: cancer, child, experience, nursing, parent
  • Akdeniz Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

This study aimed to describe the experiences of parents of children with cancer in the diagnosis process. A descriptive qualitative research design and content analysis method were used. Eleven parents participated in the study. Three main themes emerged, each with related sub-themes: encountering a cancer diagnosis, changes in the lives of those affected by the diagnosis, and coping strategies. Upon their children’s diagnosis, parents reported feelings of guilt, regret, helplessness, devastation, constant thoughts of death, and changes in their lives, with some siblings displaying negative reactions. Some children felt their freedom was restricted, and some refused treatment. Parents coped by distracting their attention, praying, receiving support from their family, relatives or health professionals, and maintaining hope for their children’s recovery. The study concludes that parents of children diagnosed with cancer require support to manage and adapt to the diagnosis process and meet their needs effectively throughout this difficult journey.