This study used a phenomenological approach, drawing on Heidegger’s Ontology of Dasein as a frame of reference. A total of 72 interviews with 7 patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer were conducted over a period of 13 months.  All patients were approached no sooner than three days after their initial surgical treatment to remove the cancer.  In order to participate in the study, patients needed to be in good physical condition and were literate/fluent in German or English. Data were analyzed following Colaizzi’s 8-step process.

Results are presented as one main category, “the omnipresence of cancer”, and two subcategories, “toward authentic Dasein” and “mapping out the future”. Findings revealed that a cancer diagnosis pervades all aspects of life (the omnipresence of cancer). Having received a diagnosis of cancer means an individual is faced with the potential of premature death or lifelong illness. Patients feel stigmatized by the diagnosis and classify this as belonging to an illness group. Due to the illness, patients experience a reflection of their self upon which they may choose to act or not (toward authentic Dasein). Patients also develop coping strategies to facilitate return to everyday life and to take up their previous tasks or work again. This may or may not involve a change in their outlook on life (mapping out the future).  Information from this study supports the need for in-depth discussions between patients and healthcare professionals so that patients’ questions and uncertainties may be addressed. Structural improvements of institutions and discharge planning are needed to support the patient in the disease situation.  Thus, the results of this study are pertinent to health policy, nursing practice and education of health care providers.

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See more of The 17th International Nursing Research Congress Focusing on Evidence-Based Practice (19-22 July 2006)