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It Is Tough and Tiring but It Works - Children's Experiences of Undergoing Radiotherapy
Uppsala University, Disciplinary Domain of Medicine and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Pediatrics. Uppsala University, Disciplinary Domain of Medicine and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences.
Umea Univ, Dept Nursing, Umea, Sweden..
Umea Univ, Umea Inst Design, Umea, Sweden..
Uppsala University, Disciplinary Domain of Medicine and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Experimental and Clinical Oncology.
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2016 (English)In: PLOS ONE, E-ISSN 1932-6203, Vol. 11, no 4, article id e0153029Article in journal (Refereed) Published
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Abstract [en]

Approximately 300 children ages 0 to 18 are diagnosed with cancer in Sweden every year, and 80 to 90 of them undergo radiotherapy treatment. The aim was to describe children's experiences of preparing for and undergoing radiotherapy, and furthermore to describe children's suggestions for improvement. Thirteen children between the ages of 5 and 15 with various cancer diagnoses were interviewed. Data was analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The findings revealed five categories: positive and negative experiences with hospital stays and practical arrangements; age-appropriate information, communication, and guidance to various degrees; struggle with emotions; use of distraction and other suitable coping strategies; and children's suggestions for improvement during radiotherapy. An overarching theme emerged: "It is tough and tiring but it works". Some key areas were: explanatory visits, the need for information and communication, being afraid, discomfort and suffering, the need for media distraction, dealing with emotions, and the need for support. A systematic, family-centered preparation program could possible help families prepare and individualized distraction during radiotherapy could contribute to reducing distress. Further studies with interventions could clarify successful programs.

Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2016. Vol. 11, no 4, article id e0153029
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Medical and Health Sciences
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URN: urn:nbn:se:uu:diva-294669DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153029ISI: 000373608000066PubMedID: 27055258OAI: oai:DiVA.org:uu-294669DiVA, id: diva2:932317
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Swedish Childhood Cancer Foundation, PR 2013-0025Available from: 2016-06-01 Created: 2016-05-26 Last updated: 2021-06-14Bibliographically approved

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Engvall, GunnNilsson, Kristina

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