Family’s experience in Caring of Cancer Patient undergoing Oral Chemotherapy : A Study Phenomenology

Abstract

A B S T R A C T The use of Oral Chemotherapy is increasing nowadays. A family who directly involves in caring the patient should be aware of the side effect and how to handle this agent safely. Phenomenology approach of the qualitative study was conducted to get illustration regarding family experience in managing the care of the patient receiving oral chemotherapy. Data were collected by semistructured interview. The study gathered from 10 participants from the family who meet inclusion criteria. The current study showed that three thematic items related to how they manage to care for their family's member. Those are 1) Lack of knowledge about oral chemotherapy, 2) Confusing in handling safe oral chemotherapy, and 3) lack of ability in caring patients when side effect appeared and the following adherence. These three things are considered lacked by the patients. Therefore, health care professional, especially nurses,are expected to give more education and attention about administering oral chemotherapy agents, safe handling, adherence, and managing side effects both of in clinical and home setting. Multi-component interventions that include education, equipment, and technology can improve compliance with oral chemotherapy and will help families to secure and provide the appropriate affection to them. Keywords: Family, oral chemotherapy, care, qualitative study