Asian Oncol Nurs.  2013 Sep;13(3):163-173. 10.5388/aon.2013.13.3.163.

Experience of Colorectal Cancer Survival Journeys: Born Again after Going Through an Altered Self Image

• Park JA
• Choi KS

• KMID: 2220757
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5388/aon.2013.13.3.163

Abstract

PURPOSE
This microethnographic study was performed to understand the survival experiences of patients after surgical resection of colorectal cancer.
METHODS
In-depth interviews of seven male and six female patients with colorectal cancer were conducted after being observed. Digital-audio recordings of the interviews were transcribed verbatim and then qualitatively analyzed.
RESULTS
The survival journeys of patients with colorectal cancer surgery were described as 'born again after going through an altered self-image'. This consists of 4 phases: 'Confrontation of the cancer diagnosis', 'Fierce compliance', 'Leveling off', and 'Born again'. Their self-images were significantly altered subsequent to confronting their cancer diagnosis. While they were in the phase of fierce compliance, patients were introverted from the outside world, but upon receiving help from a substantial supportive system including family, health professionals, peer patients, and religion, their internalized self-image was reinforced. This would significantly boost the patients' morale. Finally they felt born again with an emotional and spiritual self-image.
CONCLUSION
Nursing intervention should be differentiated and specified according to the specific phase of the long term colorectal cancer survival journey. Colorectal cancer patients should be provided with a specialized nursing program to improve their self-images.

Keyword

Colorectal Neoplasms; Survivors; Life Experiences; Self Concept

MeSH Terms

Colorectal Neoplasms*
Compliance
Diagnosis
Female
General Surgery
Health Occupations
Humans
Life Change Events
Male
Morale
Nursing
Self Concept
Survivors

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Colorectal cancer survival journey and cancer treatment process. Ca.Dx=cancer diagnosis; IV Cx=intravenous chemtherapy; Oral Cx=oral chemtherapy; Ca. Tx=cancer treatment.

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  Fig. 2 Colo-rectal patients' self image moves from covert world through out cancer survival journey. SI=self image; Ca. Dx=cancer diagnosis.

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