Hope–Related Experiences of Lung Cancer Patients During Postoperative Recovery

<p>Understanding the hope-related experiences of lung cancer patients during postoperative recovery is expected to help support patients with maintaining enhancing their mental energy at the initial stage of treatment and to clarify valuable perspectives of support that influence quality of life.</p><p>The present study aimed to promote a better understanding of lung cancer patients and to identify requirements for physical and psychological recovery by examining their hope-related experiences during postoperative recovery.</p><p>A qualitative and descriptive study including a semi-structured interview　was conducted three to six months after surgery involving lung cancer patients during postoperative recovery. The hope-related experiences of 23 patients during postoperative recovery were classified into the following seven categories: even if the patients had lung cancer, they were able to undergo surgery, the patients live with their remaining lung, the patients hope to overcome cancer and live positively, the patients can return to their old lifestyle even if operated on, current symptoms will be cured, the patients hope their loved ones recognize that they are trying their best, and the patients live in a reality where their joy is restrained. For cancer patients, being able to undergo surgery means a cure for cancer and the possibility of continuing to live. As “surgical” treatment is associated with definitive therapy for most patients, the fact that they were able to undergo it helped them recognize the possibility of continuing to live and recover, as well as motivated them to put forth the effort for self-help, which increased their sense of hope.</p>