PO-61 - Patients’ Experiences of LIving with CANcer associated thrOmbosis in Spain (PELICANOS)

Abstract

The Patients' Experiences of LIving with CANcer associated thrombosis (PELICAN) study has identified the experience of cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) to be a distressing one, for which patients feel ill prepared for and receive insufficient support. However, such data was from a United Kingdom (UK) population and may not be representative of all nationalities, cultures and healthcare systems. To explore the experience of cancer associated thrombosis amongst patients living in Spain. Twenty consecutive patients with CAT were recruited from a Spanish University Hospital. Where possible spouses were interviews in conjunction. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were undertaken, assited by a pre-agreed promt list. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Preliminary data analysis was undertaken using thematic analysis. Several commonalities between UK and Spanish patients were identified including the traumatic nature of the experience, need for information and adaptive behaviors through ritualization. Three new major themes also emerged: Communication needs: over emphasis on heparin injection training, additional need for explanation of cause, response and prognosis The impact of CAT on the concept of self: CAT was considered defining watershed moment, confirmation of seriousness of the cancer, The impact of CAT on the family dynamic: distressing diagnosis for loved ones, exaggerated desire to help which could disempower patient independence. The experience of CAT is a distressing one which brings with it additional information needs through effective communication. Within the Spanish population, the role of family is of particular importance as well as the impact of CAT on the patient's feelings of worth and personal identity. Effective communication, support and access to information are essential in order to minimize distress and enhance treatment complicance.