A rede de suporte social online na vivência da pessoa com doença oncológica

Abstract

Chronic diseases have been increasing between the population. Receiving the diagnosis of oncological disease is almost always unexpected, the patient can experience emotional, psychological and physical reactions. Interactions are established on people’s behavior that are affected by the disease through online social support networks. The nurse plays a big role in people’s daily life that are diagnosed. Establishing a relationship built on respect, trust and empathy which is very important for people facing this disease. The main objective of the study is to describe the importance of using an online support network in the patient’s health-disease transition. Specifically, it is intended to determine which online support networks these people are using; Identify the reason why (or which) these people turn to an online support network; Specify the benefits of using the online social support network in their life; Describe the changes felt due to the use of the online social support network; Determine the daily time spent on the use of online social support networks. A phenomenological qualitative study was made and the (semi-structured) interview was the instrument of data collection in an accidental non-probabilistic sampling. The processing of data was performed using content analysis and it was composed of three phases: pre-analysis, exploration of material and treatment of results, inferences and interpretation. The use of online social support it’s not a primary source for the participants that are affected with an oncological disease. In order to face the experiences of an oncological disease, the person gives preference to the physical social support network, which includes family and friends. Besides that, an online social support network also has advantages for the individual and family, such as researching information and becoming a temporary escape from the problems they face.