Analyzing the Lived Experiences of End-of-life Cancer Patients

The unique problems and needs of end-of-life cancer patients make it difficult for these patients to adjust to their new living conditions. Examining these problems and needs can provide invaluable information about coping with and adjusting to terminal cancer. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the lived experiences of end-of-life cancer patients.

A phenomenological qualitative method was used to conduct this study. The study population included all end-of-life cancer patients admitted to Emam Reza Clinic in Shiraz City, Iran, who were aware of their disease status and had a life expectancy of at least six months (based on the doctor’s prognosis). Participants were selected using purposive sampling and the data were theoretically saturated after 14 semi-structured interviews. The data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step approach.

Based on the phenomenological analysis results, five parameters, including family-related factors, culture and economy, the self, the physician and the treatment process, and religion and spirituality, were identified as the main themes of the present study.

Considering the adjustment problems faced by end-of-life cancer patients and the multidimensional nature of cancer-related factors and components, multifaceted interventions can facilitate the adjustment of these patients to their new living conditions.