The Experience of Uncertainty in Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the experience of uncertainty in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy in South Korea. Methods: Data were obtained from in-depth interviews with ten cancer patients conducted from Mar. 21 to Nov. 11, 2017. The data were collected until saturation and analyzed via Colazzi's phenomenological method. Results: In this study, 6 categories were extracted: Four categories contributed to uncertainty including 'Confusion about cancer and course of treatment: 'Inner conflicts: `Being overwhelmed by treatment: and 'Unknown future Two categories facilitated coping with uncertainty including Seeking knowledge and 'Need for spiritual peace Conclusion: Uncertainty experiences for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy in different societies is largely similar. However, some experiences seemed unique to Korean patients. Also, there is a great deal of uncertainty about the treatment outcomes and loss of treatment opportunities in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The results of this study will help oncology professionals develop patient-centered psychological interventions by improving understanding of the uncertainty of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.