RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Acute Side effects and health care requirements in breast cancer patients treated with radiotherapy
JF Saudi Medical Journal
JO Saudi Med J
FD Prince Sultan Military Medical City
SP 199
OP 204
DO 10.15537/smj.2024.45.2.20230438
VO 45
IS 2
A1 Temiz, Gamze
A1 Cankaya, Gul
A1 Ozturk, Aslıhan
A1 Ozgen, Zerrin
YR 2024
UL http://smj.org.sa/content/45/2/199.abstract
AB Objectives: To identify the unmet needs of breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapyMethods: A pretest-posttest single-group experimental design, a variation of the experimental research approach, was employed in this investigation. The study’s sample consisted of 28 breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy at the radiation oncology clinic of a training and research hospital between November 2021 and April 2022. The sample size was determined using G*Power 3.1 software. Data were collected using an Information Form, Radiotherapy Acute Side Effects Follow-up Form, and the Supportive Care Needs Scale (SCNS-SF34).Results: Participants reported experiencing side effects such as difficulty swallowing, sore throat, cough, weakness, loss of appetite, skin sensitivity, discomfort, pain, and skin reactions. These reactions moderately impacted their daily activities, psychological well-being, and unmet needs in terms of patient care and support.Conclusion: Breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy may not express every side effect they experience to healthcare professionals. This study will contribute to the literature in terms of raising awareness by emphasizing the importance of addressing the comprehensive needs of breast cancer patients throughout their radiotherapy treatment journey.