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Radiographers relationship with head and neck cancer patients

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  22 April 2013

Helen Egestad
Helen Egestad*
Affiliation:
Department of Health and Care Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway
*
Correspondence to: Helen Egestad, Department of Health and Care Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, N-9037 Tromsø, Norway. Tel: 004777660637. E-mail: helen.egestad@uit.no
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Abstract

Introduction

Head and neck cancer patients face many demanding events, such as radiation therapy, which can cause anxiety and uncertainty. Studies report that relevant information decreases emotional distress and inadequate communication can lead to increased fear and anxiety. There is a lack of research that describes what radiographers do when they meet the patients. The aim is to explain what radiographers’ do that may lead to less anxiety and uncertainty for head and neck cancer patients.

Method

This study was conducted via qualitative interviews and took on a phenomenological, hermeneutic approach. Eleven head and neck cancer patients were interviewed 1-month post radiation therapy.

Results

Successful meetings are characterised by the radiographer smiling, being pleasant, referring to the patient by their name, informing the patient thoroughly, asking open questions and answering questions.

Conclusion

Head and neck cancer patients feel vulnerable and need the radiographer to create a safe atmosphere when they undergo treatment. Then radiographers reduce uncertainty, provide emotional support, reduce loneliness, provide information and create alliances.

Keywords

communicationhead and neck cancerpatient careradiation therapyrole definition
Type
Original Articles
Information
Journal of Radiotherapy in Practice , Volume 12 , Issue 3 , September 2013 , pp. 245 - 254
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2013 

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