Abstract

Women with gynecological (GYN) cancer experience a wide spectrum of physical, emotional and social effects after diagnosis and treatment of their cancer. The insufficient availability of local support groups, limited transportation for the rural Chinese population and a shortage of oncologists make it difficult to have face-to-face support groups for Chinese GYN cancer patients. However, the wide access of Internet has provided an opportunity for people to have online support groups. The purpose of this study was to observe and describe the types of support given to and by Chinese GYN cancer survivors in a QQ chat group. This was a qualitative study that used the directed content analysis approach. A QQ group was observed for two weeks between March 10th (12:01am) and March 24st (11:59pm) 2018 Beijing time. Observed online posts were copied and pasted into a WORD ™ document for analysis. There were 4 themes observed: sharing experience, information exchange, emotional support and Guardian Against Cancer group member benefits. The results of the study suggested that women supported each other but little evidence-based support was observed. Healthcare providers should be monitoring and engaging in conversations with group members. Well-planed and organized information sessions should also be beneficial for members. Further research on understanding members’ needs on online support groups and the effectiveness of intervention should be conducted.

Thesis Completion

2018

Semester

Summer

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Loerzel, Victoria

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)

College

College of Nursing

Department

Nursing

Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

1 year

Release Date

8-1-2019

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