This study protocol was reviewed by the Dalhousie University Research Ethics Committee (ref #2008-1828).
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CE Article
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Rehabilitation After Breast Cancer: Recommendations from Young Survivors
Article first published online: 20 JUN 2012
DOI: 10.1002/rnj.21
© 2012 Association of Rehabilitation Nurses
Additional Information
How to Cite
Easley, J. and Miedema, B. (2012), Rehabilitation After Breast Cancer: Recommendations from Young Survivors. Rehabilitation Nursing, 37: 163–170. doi: 10.1002/rnj.21
Publication History
- Issue published online: 28 JUN 2012
- Article first published online: 20 JUN 2012
Funded by
- Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation—Atlantic Chapter
Corrected by:
Errata: Errata
Vol. 37, Issue 6, 312, Article first published online: 7 SEP 2012
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- oncology;
- psychosocial issues;
- quality of life;
- rehabilitation;
- research: qualitative
Purpose
Studies show that younger women have a greater physical, psychological, and social morbidity, and poorer quality of life after a breast cancer diagnosis than older women. With improving survival rates, cancer rehabilitation has an increasing role in the cancer care continuum, particularly for younger women who potentially have many productive years ahead of them. The purpose of this study was to assess the cancer rehabilitation needs of young women after breast cancer treatment.
Methods
In this qualitative, descriptive study, we purposefully sampled 35 breast cancer survivors diagnosed under the age of 50 in Atlantic Canada to participate in two telephone interviews.
Results/Discussion
Recommendations included: improved communication between the various healthcare professionals; healthcare professionals taking on a more proactive approach in recommending rehabilitation after treatment; better insurance coverage or financial assistance for rehabilitation services; and more rehabilitation support for rural populations.
Conclusion
Rehabilitation nurses can play an important role in educating patients, recognizing long-term sequelae, and directing patients to various medical and allied health care professionals to provide proper support and care post-breast cancer treatment.