Disease Related Stress Experienced by women with Mastectomy : Q Methodology

유방 절제술 후의 질병관련 스트레스 : Q-방법

Purpose: To identify the type of disease-related stress experienced by women who received mastectomy for breast cancer using Q methodology. Method: Q sample included 30 statements obtained from literature and interviews with women with mastectomy. P sample consisted of 22 patients with mastectomy. The data were collected from November to December 2002 and analyzed using QUANL program. Result : Four types of disease-related stress experienced by women with mastectomy were found. Type 1 was manifested for a short duration following surgery and characterized by lowered self-esteem, feelings of emptiness and depression because of impaired body image. Type 2 was characterized by declined physical strength, resulting in frequent fatigue in the daily life and less intimate relationship with spouse. Type 3 was manifested by perfectionists with strong sense of self-pride who received or considered breast reconstruction surgery. Type 4 was reported by those who had long period of post-surgery. This type reported a strong sense of discomfort for wearing an artificial breast but didn't show any intention of trying breast reconstruction surgery. Conclusion: Women with mastectomy were found to experience different type of disease-related distress. Therefore, nurses should assess the type of stress the patient experiences following a mastectomy to provide appropriate nursing care.