A Descriptive Study to Assess the Knowledge About the Effects of Chemotherapy Among Oncology Patients Undergoing Treatment in a View to Prepare Self-Instructional Module in Regional Cancer Center Puducherry

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer is a term coined for the diseases in which the abnormal cells divide into uncontrolled manner and are able to invade other tissues, To Many cancer, it implies suffering and pain. The goal of cure, control and palliation are achieved through the use of four treatment modalities such as; Surgery, Radiation, Chemotherapy, Biologic therapy, and every treatment has got its own merits and demerits. Being nurse one should be able to understand the condition of cancer patients who are undergoing the chemotherapy. As this treatment, has an effect on both the physiological and psychological aspects of human life viz. Pain, sleep disturbances, nausea, vomiting, stress, anxiety, gastrointestinal disturbances, etc. Statement of the problem: “A descriptive study to assess the knowledge about the effects of chemotherapy among oncology patients undergoing treatment in a view to prepare self-instructional module in Regional Cancer Center Puducherry”. Objectives: 1. To assess the level of knowledge about the effects of chemotherapy among oncology patients.2.To associate the level of knowledge about the effects of chemotherapy among oncology patients with their selected demographic variables. Methodology: Qualitative research approach with Descriptive research design. Setting was conducted at oncology OPD at regional cancer center JIPMER. Population Comprises of all the oncology patients of regional cancer center JIPMER. Sample size of 50 oncology patients with convenient sampling sample technique. Assessment of knowledge consists of 30 objective type of multiple choice questions with 4 characteristics. A structured interview questionnaire was selected for the study. Result: The study concluded that 22(44%) of them are having inadequate knowledge, 24(48%) of them are having moderately adequate knowledge, 4(8%) of them are having adequate knowledge. Based in the results it’s an urge to prepare self-instructional module to provide adequate knowledge regarding the effects of chemotherapy. Association of socio demographic variables on the level of knowledge on effects of chemotherapy among oncology patients age, sex, education, religion of the demographic variables are significantly associated with their knowledge score.