Opinions and Experiences of Patients Receiving Oral Chemotherapy: A Qualitative Study

Year 2020, Volume: 10 Issue: 3, 265 - 271, 29.09.2020

Sevinç Kutlutürkan , Kamile Kırca , Özlem Yurtal

Abstract

Aim: This study is a qualitative study aimed to determine
the opinions and experiences of patients receiving oral chemotherapy.

Methods: The study was conducted in January 2018 with 18
volunteers who applied to oncology polyclinic at a university hospital and
received oral chemotherapy. In data collection, a description form and a
semi-structured interview form were administered. In data analysis process,
transcription after each interview and evaluation steps through thematic
content analysis method were employed.

Results: The themes obtained in the study are as access to
drugs, use of medicine, side effects and control of treatment, approach of
health professionals and support of family and relatives. There is a need to
ensure the continuity of the treatment follow-up period in order to improve
treatment compliance of patients, to monitor side effects of treatment and to
ensure safe use of medicines.

Conclusion:In this process, it is crucial that nurses take
an active role in patient education and counselling among health professionals
so that weaknesses in the patient's drug use process and opportunities for
improvement could be identified.

Keywords

Oral chemotherapy agents, patient, qualitative study, experience

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