Postoperative symptom management perceptions and coping experiences of individuals with prostate cancer

Abstract

Objective This study aims to examine in depth the perceptions of postoperative symptom management and coping experiences of individuals with prostate cancer. Material‐Method The study was conducted with 15 individuals with prostate cancer using a phenomenological research design, which is a qualitative research design. Interviews were conducted via the WhatsApp application. Results The data were analysed using Colaizzi's phenomenological method. In the data analysis, two categories, five main themes, and 15 sub‐themes emerged. In the category of symptom management perception, there are themes of pain management processes, the use of complementary and alternative therapies and practices to cope with symptoms and improve quality of life. In the category of coping experiences, the themes of individual coping, interpersonal relations, and productivity were obtained. Conclusion Our study suggests that individuals with prostate cancer have difficulty in symptom management in the postoperative coping process, but they managed them effectively with the support of their spouse, family, and health care professionals.