The experiences of adolescents receiving cancer treatment in Turkey: A qualitative study

Abstract

Cancer is an illness with undeniable burdens on adolescents (Johnston et al., 2018). A life-threatening illness, prolonged hospitalisations and serious medical procedures chronically affect adolescents' lives (Hudson, Link, & Simone, 2014; Roberts, Huang, Crusto, & Kaufman, 2014). The adolescents usually receive chemotherapy with an intensive protocol for two to three years during their recurrent hospitalisations or polyclinic visits (Wiener et al., 2017). Although chemotherapy is the most effective treatment for childhood cancers, adolescents experience severe side effects (

Examining the expectations of healing care environment of hospitalized children with cancer based on Watson's theory of human caring

“…The children appreciated all people who came to visit because they felt bored and lonely, and missed having physical contact with the social environment. These findings are supported by previous studies showing that children and adolescents receiving cancer treatment experience loneliness and social isolation (Gürcan & Atay Turan, 2020; Pahl et al, 2021). This lack of communication and social support is a major loss and challenge for participants.…”

“…During the interviews, the researcher used a personal information form (including demographic characteristics of children with cancer) and an interview guide (including five open‐ended qualitative items; see Table 1). The interview guide was constructed by the research team using nondirective questions in light of Watson's Theory of Human Caring, the literature and the study aims (Gürcan & Atay Turan, 2020; Watson, 2009). Potential sources of bias from the research team in the interview guide were minimized by having an academic expert in paediatric nursing to evaluate the meaning, aim and scope of the qualitative interview questions.…”

The effectiveness of mandala drawing in reducing psychological symptoms, anxiety and depression in hospitalised adolescents with cancer: A randomised controlled trial

“…In previous studies, mandala drawing has been used with diverse populations to manage acute pain, identify psychological problems, encourage self-expression, reduce stress and anxiety, provide psychological relief and increase concentration, hope, and wellbeing (Cheng-Hung et al, 2016;Curry & Kasser, 2005;DeLue, 1999;Gürcan & Atay Turan, 2020;Kim et al, 2014Kim et al, , 2018Stinley et al, 2015).…”

Experiences of Turkish Parents of Hospitalized Children With Cancer During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study

“…Parents of children with cancer who express their emotions experience relief and improved well-being (Duncan et al, 2007). For this reason, considering the negative effects of suppressing emotions, pediatric oncology nurses should find varied ways to help parents express their emotions, such as by participating in art therapy activities (Gürcan & Atay Turan, 2020;Jiang et al, 2020).…”