Psychological, Physical, and Social Survivorship Needs of Women Following Mastectomy in the Cape Metropole

Background: In the researchers’ clinical experience perioperative nurses may not understand the psychological, physical and social survivorship needs of women following mastectomy. Breast cancer is the most dreaded and common female malignancy in the world and the leading cause of cancer death among women in developed and economically developing countries. Psychological responses include fears of the future, recurrence of the disease, feelings of loss, concerns about body image and self-concept, which relate to role adjustment and family responses The researcher, a professional nurse practicing in the operating theatre assisting with breast surgery, identified a need to explore the survivorship needs of women following mastectomy in order to understand the challenges patients face after surgery.

Methods: A qualitative design with a descriptive phenomenological approach was applied, underpinned by Husserl’ post-positive philosophy to elicit the participant’s psychological, physical and social survivorship needs following mastectomy. Seven women who had undergone mastectomy for breast cancer and who resided in the Cape Metropole were deliberately selected by means of snowball sampling to participate in individual interviews. Consent to conduct the study was obtained from the Health Research Ethical Committee at Stellenbosch University and informed consent was obtained from the participants at each interview. Anonymity and confidentiality was ensured. Interviews took place at a location of the participant’s choice, were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and member checked. The interviews were analysed thematically and the themes that emerged were emotional distress and individual coping mechanisms, concern for children and family, impact of changes to appearance and preferred support needs.

Results: Findings show that support requirements are based on the individual’s psychological, physical and social needs. A need for breast cancer education and information in the survivor’s mother tongue was expressed. 

It is suggested that women diagnosed with breast cancer should be educated along with their families in order to enhance the transition of survivorship.