needs of patients receiving brain radiotherapy at Fayoum oncology center

Abstract

Background: Brain radiotherapy is an indispensable mainstay treatment for the majority of brain tumors. It has an important role in the treatment of brain tumors either with curative intent or for palliation. Although radiotherapy is well tolerated by most patients, some experience radiation-induced side effects. Aim of the study: To assess the needs of patients receiving brain radiotherapy at fayoum oncology center. Design: Descriptive exploratory research design was used to conduct this study. Setting: The study was conducted in the radiotherapy unit at Fayoum Oncology Center at fayoum governorate. Subjects: A purposive sample of 60 adult patients from both gender receiving brain radiotherapy. Tools: A structured interviewing questionnaire included socio-demographic data, medical history, surgical history and patients' health needs assessment questionnaire. Results: the highest unfulfilled health needs of patients treated with brain radiotherapy were discomfort, activities of daily living, anxiety and depression. There is statistically significant correlation between physical health needs, psychological and social health needs. Additionally, there is statistically significant correlation between physical discomfort and anxiety and between physical discomfort and depression Conclusion: The study concluded that the patients suffered from unfulfilled health needs physical, social and psychological.