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A Phenomenologic Study of Family Caregivers of Patients With Head and Neck Cancers.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES
To describe and understand the lived experience of family caregivers of patients with head and neck cancers (HNCs).


RESEARCH APPROACH
Phenomenology using van Manen's human science approach .


SETTING
Two hospital systems providing regional cancer care in upstate New York.  .


PARTICIPANTS
Nine family caregivers of patients with HNCs who had completed treatment .


METHODOLOGIC APPROACH
Qualitative analysis of semi-structured, conversational interviews about the lived experience of family caregivers.


FINDINGS
Five major themes emerged related to the lived experiences of this sample of caregivers.


CONCLUSIONS
Family caregivers of patients with HNCs play a fundamental role in the post-treatment phase of care, including meeting specific physical and psychosocial needs. Further investigation should explore the relationship between information needs and the experience of vigilance and fear.


INTERPRETATION
Nurses must include caregivers in physical and psychosocial plans of care. Balancing and meeting information needs of caregivers to avoid undue emotional stress and recognizing their support needs are valuable components of care.