SELF-CARE ABILITY AND PERCEIVED SIDE EFFECTS INTENSITY OF CHEMOTHERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH COLORECTAL CANCER RECEIVING EDUCATIVE-SUPPORTIVE PROGRAM

Abstract

This Before-After Intervention Study aimed to investigate the effects of Educative-Supportive Program on self-care ability and perceived side effects intensity of chemotherapy in patients with colorectal cancer. The application process of the Educative-Supportive Program was also explored. A purposive sampling of 31 patients was recruited and attended the program for 9 weeks. Data were collected by using Personal Information sheet, Self-care ability questionnaire, Self-report of side effects intensity. Application process of the program was taken down by the researcher. Data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, and repeated measures ANOVA. Content analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data regarding application process.

The findings showed that self-care ability at the end of the program was significantly higher than those of before and between the program (p = .000). Furthermore, perceived side effects intensity were at a low level. It is suggested the benefit of program. Nurses’ concern on problems and needs of the patients should be a focus in using this program.