Author(s)

Masako Yamanaka^1,2

¹Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Care, Tenri Health Care University, Nara, Japan.
²Doctoral Program, Graduate School of Nursing, Osaka Medical College, Osaka, Japan.

Purpose: This study aimed to identify specifics of self-management towards dealing with cancer pains among adult outpatients. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 adult outpatients (9 males and 7 females) who suffered from cancer pain and the data obtained were analyzed using the qualitative synthesis method of KJ Ho. Results: An analysis of the results revealed these key findings for the following symbolic wording of the semi-structured interviews: Cooperative relationship with medical professionals; Problems originating from cancer pain; Self-regulation of analgesic medications based on the interactions with medical professionals; Self-regulation of the analgesic medications based on the physical perceptions of the effects; Self-regulation to maintain a balanced and calm mind, Fulfilling life by the pain alleviation and liberation from the restrictions imposed by the cancer; and Efforts to maintain their lives by themselves. Conclusion: Based on the cooperative relationship established with medical professionals, the patient carried out the self-regulation of cancer pain using analgesics, and self-regulation to maintain a balanced and calm mind. Nurses must therefore sufficiently educate patients regarding how to communicate successfully with medical professionals in order to improve cancer patients’ pain management regarding both physical and mental aspects.

Self-Management, Cancer Pain, Adult Outpatients

Yamanaka, M. (2018) Investigation of Specifics of Self-Management towards Dealing with Cancer Pain among Adult Outpatients. Health, 10, 1520-1538. doi: 10.4236/health.2018.1011116.