The Experience of Patients with Hematological Malignancy in their Terminal Stage: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

Background Patients diagnosed with hematological malignancies and residing in low-middle-income countries undergo significant physical and psychological stressors. Despite this, only a mere 16% of them receive proper care during their terminal stages. Therefore, it is crucial to gain insight into the unique experiences of this patient population. Aim To gain a better understanding of the needs and lived experiences of adult patients with advanced hematological malignancy in their terminal stage from a phenomenological perspective. Methods To collect and analyze data, a qualitative interpretive design was employed, using a phenomenological approach. The study involved in-depth interviews with ten participants aged between 36 and 76 years, utilizing an unstructured approach. Results The study's analysis revealed two primary themes that emerged from the participants' experiences of reaching the terminal stage of illness: "Pain, Suffering, and Distress" and "Spiritual Coping." The first theme encompassed physical and emotional pain, suffering, and distress, while the second theme centered on the participants' spiritual coping mechanisms. These coping mechanisms included seeking comfort in religious practices, relying on spiritual support from family and friends, and finding solace in their beliefs and faith. Conclusion Patients with hematological malignancies in their terminal stages experience significant physical and psychosocial suffering. While they require support to cope with their daily struggles, their experiences often go unnoticed, leading to disappointment and a loss of dignity. It is critical for healthcare providers to acknowledge these patients' needs and provide more organized and effective care as they approach the end of life, ensuring they receive the necessary support to achieve a peaceful death. This approach can help maintain the patient's comfort and dignity, which is of utmost importance in the terminal stages of illness.