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Stress and coping strategies among allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation survivors: A qualitative study
Author(s) -
Kusaka Keiko,
Inoguchi Hironobu,
Nakahara Rika,
Kurosawa Saiko,
Fukuda Takahiro,
Satomura Kazunari,
Shimizu Ken
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
european journal of cancer care
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.849
H-Index - 67
eISSN - 1365-2354
pISSN - 0961-5423
DOI - 10.1111/ecc.13307
Subject(s) - coping (psychology) , medicine , stressor , thematic analysis , transplantation , qualitative research , social support , health care , gerontology , clinical psychology , psychology , psychotherapist , surgery , social science , sociology , economics , economic growth
Objective The aim of this qualitative study was to explore allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) survivors' perspectives of stresses and their coping strategies, in order to attain a deeper understanding of their experience. Methods We conducted semi‐structured interviews with 20 Japanese allo‐HSCT survivors about the stresses they experienced and how they coped. We then conducted a content‐driven thematic analysis of the interview results. The interview questions probed stresses and coping strategies related to allo‐HSCT. Results We identified 74 stresses across 7 domains: symptoms after transplantation, limitations in daily life, appearance changes, relationship anxieties, work impairment and financial issues, uncertainty and disappointed expectations. In addition, 21 coping strategies were identified across 3 domains: direct efforts to manage problems, adaptive attitude, and seeking and using social support. Conclusion By identifying a broad range of stressors associated with allo‐HSCT, insight was gained as to the impact of allo‐HSCT on survivors' lives. These results provide a foundation for the future development of resources for survivors, their significant others and clinicians. Stressors and coping strategies among allo‐HSCT survivors were comprehensively characterised, which will provide useful information for patients and enable healthcare practitioners to provide better care.