Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the relationships between the antecedents of uncertainty and uncertainty, and to analyze the contributions of correlated variables in explaining the variance in uncertainty among men who were undergoing the watchful waiting management approach for prostate cancer.
Design: This descriptive study used a quantitative, survey approach to gather information from participants.
Methods: A total of 19 subjects contacted the researcher and completed the mailed questionnaire.
Main Research Variables: Uncertainty, symptom pattern, event familiarity, education, credible authority and social support.
Findings: The results revealed significant relationships between level of education and length of time with illness, and uncertainty. Furthermore, stepwise multiple regression, indicated that education explained 51% of the variance in uncertainty.
Conclusions: This study supports that the level of education of men who undergo watchful waiting and the length of time they have prostate cancer are related to uncertainty. Furthermore, educational level is a significant predictor of uncertainty in this population.
Implications: The findings of this study imply the need for increased teaching and patient education regarding watchful waiting both before and after the treatment decision.
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