Cogitare Enfermagem (Jun 2018)

IMPACT OF CARING FOR CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH CANCER ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF CAREGIVERS

  • Juliana da Silva Oliveira,
  • Danielle de Oliveira Cunha,
  • Charles Souza Santos,
  • Roberta Laíse Gomes Leite Morais

DOI
https://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v23i2.51589
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 23, no. 2
p. e51589

Abstract

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Objective: to describe the impacts of caring for children and adolescents with cancer on the lives of caregivers. Method: Descriptive study with a qualitative approach conducted from May to June 2015. Fifteen (15) caregivers of children and adolescents from an institution that provides support to children with cancer in a municipality in the southern region of Bahia. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed according to the technique of content analysis, thematic modality. Results: Changes in family routine and financial problems were identified as negative aspects faced by caregivers, and the support obtained was identified as a positive aspect. The main feelings experienced by them were discouragement, sadness, loss, revolt, victory, death and faith. Conclusion: It can be concluded that follow up by a multidisciplinary team is necessary to provide emotional support to caregivers, in order to prepare them to cope with the stressful events associated with the care process.

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