Factors influencing comfort level in head and neck neoplasm patients receiving radiotherapy

Abstract

ObjectiveTo determine factors that influence comfort in head and neck neoplasm patients receiving radiotherapy. MethodsIn total, 200 head and neck neoplasm patients receiving radiotherapy were recruited from three tertiary first class hospitals. They were assessed by Radiotherapy Comfort Questionnaire for patients with head and neck neoplasm, Social Support Scale, and Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire. ResultsThe total score of comfort was 60.54 ± 8.32. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that number of radiation treatments, family accompaniment, educational level, resignation coping mode, complications due to diabetes, accompanying chemotherapy, and the utilization of social support significantly influenced comfort level (p < 0.05). Among these, number of radiation treatments, complications due to diabetes, accompanying chemotherapy, and resignation coping were negative factors. ConclusionEncouraging utilization of social support systems and a positive coping mode is important for increasing comfort level in head and neck neoplasm patients during radiotherapy. Nurses should pay particular attention to those patients during later stages of radiotherapy or chemotherapy, with diabetes, without family accompaniment, and with lower education level.