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Learning Objective 1: 1.Identify the process for defining the concept of survivorship using the Walker and Avant method of concept analysis.
Learning Objective 2: 2.Discuss the process of change experienced during survivorship and learn how nurses, as change agents, can improve health outcomes in the client and family.
The purpose of this project was to explore the numerous and often inconsistent applications of the concept, survivorship. Clarification of the concept is an integral component in furthering nursing research related to cancer survivorship. More than 12.6 million people were diagnosed with cancer in 2008 (Ferlay et al., 2010), with survival rates ranging from less than 40% to more than 80% in underdeveloped and developed countries, respectively (Coleman et al., 2008). Conceptualization of survivorship and the resulting research brings to the forefront the needs of millions of cancer survivors worldwide. Awareness of cancer survivors’ issues sets the stage for better legislation and policies that address these needs.
METHODS
The Walker and Avant (2005) method of concept analysis was used, which included a literature search of the concept’s use and identification of the concept’s defining attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents. Cases were constructed that further demonstrated the use of the concept (model case, borderline case, contrary case).
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
The Neuman Systems Model demonstrates the multidimensional and dynamic processes of survivorship and is well-suited for an exploration of the concept. The model is an open-systems model in which the client system can be a person (e.g. one living through survivorship), family, community, or a social issue (Neuman, 2002).
FINDINGS
A specific definition of survivorship emerged upon review of the literature and subsequent determination of the defining attributes. Survivorship is the dynamic process in which a person lives through and beyond an illness despite the physiological, psychological, or psychosocial effects that affect adaptation (effective or ineffective) throughout the process.
IMPLICATIONS
Recognizing the dynamic process of survivorship is essential to continued research in the care of cancer survivors worldwide. This research can result in nursing interventions that improve health outcomes in the client and family.