Transition experiences during courses of incurable cancer from the perspective of patients.

Abstract

The present study explores patients' experiences of transitions during courses of incurable cancer. So far, qualitative studies have primarily contributed with insight on what it is like living with incurable cancer related to predefined areas in patients' lives. Studies rarely focus on transition experiences and none have explored patients' transition experiences throughout the course of illness. Focusing on transitions in palliative care is important as it facilitates possibilities for healthcare professionals to support patients when needed. Ten patients living with incurable cancer were included from a specialised palliative care team and participated in individual semi-structured interviews conducted in participants' private homes. The study takes a phenomenological-hermeneutic approach and data analysis and interpretation were inspired by the French philosopher Paul Ricoeur. Two main themes were identified: "Everyday life changes" and "Approaching end of life". In total, seven sub-themes were identified. Three related to the first main theme: "Normal life changes", "People changing behaviour", "Changes hurting significant others" and four related to the second main theme: "Approaching death", "Preparing for leaving", "Holding on to life" and "Connecting with places and belongings". Patients experienced multiple transitions within their everyday lives and in the process of approaching end of life. These transitions involved experiences of both suffering and well-being.