[Caring for children and adolescents with cancer: the intrathecal chemotherapy phase].
This study aims to explore the experiences of children and adolescents with cancer during the intrathecal chemotherapy phase, by means of a qualitative approach. Empirical data were collected on the basis of semi-structured interviews. Study participants were eleven children/adolescents who received intrathecal chemotherapy, between 07 and 16 years old, from both genders, attended at a hospital school in the interior of São Paulo State, Brazil. Results converged towards the following issues: intrathecal routine; fear, pain and relief fantasies and strategies. This study gave access to important information with a view to caring for children/adolescents during the intrathecal chemotherapy phase, which is considered as one of the most stressing situations. With respect to nursing implications, we identified the vital nature of information for children/adolescents with cancer since this makes it possible to minimize uncertainties and negative feelings and makes them collaborate and participate in treatment.
Lemos
Fernanda Araújo
FA
Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo.
Lima
Regina Aparecida Garcia de
RA
Mello
Débora Falleiros de
DF
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D005201:Fantasy; D005239:Fear / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007278:Injections, Spinal; D008297:Male; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology*; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D010371:Pediatric Nursing