Date of Award
Summer 1992
Document Type
Thesis - Restricted
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Nursing
First Advisor
Shaw, Christine
Second Advisor
Schank-Doney, Mary Jane
Third Advisor
Lough, Mary Ann
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify the perceived discharge needs of women following surgical intervention for breast cancer and to compare them with those needs attributed to women by the nurses caring for them. The research questions were: 1) What are the perceived discharge needs of women following surgical intervention for breast malignancy?, 2) What discharge needs do nurses attribute to the women who have undergone surgical intervention for breast malignancy?, and 3) What, if any, relationship exists between the nurse's and the women's perception of discharge needs after surgical treatment for breast cancer? The design utilized in this study was a qualitative descriptive approach. Data were collected through open-ended interviews of five patients and five nurses. Data suggested that nurses did not individualize the assessment of patient post-hospital needs. Nurses identified limited patient discharge needs in the areas of information; instruction and psychological support/referral. Patients were initially uncertain as to what their discharge needs would be when they returned home. Discharge needs were identified by patients in the areas of physical assistance, emotional support/adjustment, information, monitoring health, and normalizing life. Post-operative breast cancer patients need anticipatory guidance by nurses to assist them with discharge planning.
Recommended Citation
Lawrence, Margaret M., "Perceived Discharge Needs of Women Following Surgical Intervention for Breast Cancer" (1992). Master's Theses (1922-2009) Access restricted to Marquette Campus. 3470.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/theses/3470