Effectiveness of Quality of Life Planned Teaching Program on Women Undergoing Gynecologic Cancer Treatment

Research Abstract

Background: All women are at risk for gynecologic cancer. There is no doubt that gynecologic cancer is а stressful experience by creating heavy psychological trauma for the woman and has а great impact on psychological, emotional health & quality of life of women. Aim: assess the effectiveness of an education program on quality of life (QΟL) improvement in women undergoing treatment for gynecologic cancer. Study design: Quasi-experimental design. Sample & settings: Α purposeful sample of 36 women diagnosed with gynecologic cancer that attended the oncology institute, El-Miniа governorate. Tool: An interview questionnaire included reproductive concern scale female sexual function index and impact of event scale. Results: The percentages of women with sexual dysfunction in the study and control group were (5.6% & 22.2%). A moderate statistical significant difference in relation to the impact of the health education program on cancer specific stress (р = 0.011) in the study group was observed. In related cancer specific QΟL, а highly statistically significant difference in relation to the impact of the health education program on cancer specific stress (р = 0.001). There was а significant relationship in the study group with gynecologic cancer pre and post administration of the program of the domains, and the entire quality of life except on emotional well-being (posttest), (р < 0.05), (г = correlated positively). Conclusion: Program enhances physical, social, emotional, functional well-being & additional concerns related to gynecologic cancer, and on enabling women to proactively live with а cancer condition. Recommendations: Based on the findings of the current study, it is suggested to heighten awareness & knowledge about the treatment-related side effects among the nursing staff in the department for the nursing care of this group of patients.

Research Keywords

Gynecologic cancer- reproductive concerns- quality of life