Asian Oncology Nursing  2013;13(1):18-27

doi:10.5388/aon.2013.13.1.18

Husbands' Caring Experiences for Women with Breast Cancer in Korea.

Eun Jin KWON 1 ; Myungsun YI

Affiliations

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Keywords

Breast Neoplasms; Qualitative Research; Caregivers; Spouses

Country

Republic of Korea

Language

Korean

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to describe the caring experiences of husbands for women with breast cancer in Korea. METHODS: The data were collected by individual in-depth interviews with seven participants during 2010-2012. Transcribed data were analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological analysis. RESULTS: A total of 10 theme clusters were derived from the analysis: Hidden fear of world without wife; Responsibility with guilt for breast cancer; Desperate search for treatment information; Becoming active companion of treatment itinerary; Comfort for wife's hair loss with sympathy; Multitasks undertaken at one time; Gain and loss by coming out publically; Wife-oriented open communication; New alternative sexual life; Everyday life matured by hardship. CONCLUSION: The results of the study can help oncology professionals in developing couple counseling programs by providing insights of the husbands' experiences of caring for women with breast cancer.