Asian Oncol Nurs.  2013 Mar;13(1):18-27. 10.5388/aon.2013.13.1.18.

Husbands' Caring Experiences for Women with Breast Cancer in Korea

• Kwon EJ
• Yi M

• KMID: 2269437
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5388/aon.2013.13.1.18

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of the study was to describe the caring experiences of husbands for women with breast cancer in Korea.
METHODS
The data were collected by individual in-depth interviews with seven participants during 2010-2012. Transcribed data were analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological analysis.
RESULTS
A total of 10 theme clusters were derived from the analysis: Hidden fear of world without wife; Responsibility with guilt for breast cancer; Desperate search for treatment information; Becoming active companion of treatment itinerary; Comfort for wife's hair loss with sympathy; Multitasks undertaken at one time; Gain and loss by coming out publically; Wife-oriented open communication; New alternative sexual life; Everyday life matured by hardship.
CONCLUSION
The results of the study can help oncology professionals in developing couple counseling programs by providing insights of the husbands' experiences of caring for women with breast cancer.

Keyword

Breast Neoplasms; Qualitative Research; Caregivers; Spouses

MeSH Terms

Breast
Breast Neoplasms
Caregivers
Counseling
Female
Friends
Guilt
Hair
Humans
Korea
Qualitative Research
Spouses

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