Erfarenheter av att vara anhörig till en person med bröstcancer : en litteraturbaserad studie

Sammanfattning: Background - Breast cancer is one of the most common cancer diseases among women worldwide. It causes many emotions to the affected woman but also for their relatives. It is important that nurses have knowledge and understanding of relatives' experiences to provide optimal support and be able to meet the needs of the relatives. Aim - This study aimed to illuminate experiences of being a relative to a person with breast cancer. Method - Friberg's (2017) designed method to contribute to evidence-based care based on analysis of qualitative research were used. Eleven scientific studies were analyzed, and it resulted in three themes and eight subthemes. Results - Three themes were found, it was: a storm of emotions, life turns upside down and support during a fragile journey. Relatives experienced many emotions when the woman was affected with breast cancer, which led to life changes. The relatives needed knowledge and support from the healthcare system, friends, and family but also from religion and God. Conclusion - The affected woman should always be in center of the healthcare but the importance of seeing relatives in the situation and caring for them is equally important. The disease often results in many negative thoughts and feelings. When the nurse sees, listens, and gives information and support to the relatives can contribute with knowledge and understanding which can facilitate their coping strategies and give a positive experience of the disease progression.