title: Exploring dimensions of coping in advanced colorectal cancer: implications for patient-centered care.
abstract: Promoting patient-centered care from diagnosis to end of life requires a better understanding of physical, psychological, social, and spiritual coping factors in advanced cancer. Using qualitative methods, the authors explored diagnosis, care planning, and treatment experiences of individuals with metastatic colorectal cancer (N=26). The main physical factors salient to patients during all care phases included symptoms and physical functioning. Key psychological factors included persistent uncertainty and a range of emotions that varied by care phase. Participants also relied heavily on social and spiritual factors for guidance. Results highlight the complex nature of coping with advanced cancer and the resources needed to facilitate high-quality care.
authors.affiliation: a Department of Public Health Sciences , Medical University of South Carolina, and Hollings Cancer Center , Charleston , South Carolina , USA.
authors.forename: Katherine R
authors.initials: KR
authors.lastname: Sterba
authors.forename: Jane
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Zapka
authors.forename: Elena I
authors.initials: EI
authors.lastname: Gore
authors.forename: Marvella E
authors.initials: ME
authors.lastname: Ford
authors.forename: Dee W
authors.initials: DW
authors.lastname: Ford
authors.forename: Melanie
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Thomas
authors.forename: Kristin
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Wallace
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009362:Neoplasm Metastasis; D018802:Patient-Centered Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012944:Social Support; D029181:Spirituality; D035501:Uncertainty