The investigation of effect of hematological cancer to relationship between with hematological cancer and family caregiver

Aim: The purpose of this research was to determine the interaction between lived experience of hospitalized patients and family caregivers with hematological cancer Methods: A phenomenologic and dyadic study was taken in the study. This study was carried out in Izmir, Turkey. The sample consisted of twelve patient and family caregiver dyads who receive cancer treatment in an oncology clinic selected by purposeful sampling. In-depth interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview format. Content analysis was used to evaluate the interviews. Results: Four themes emerged as a result of the research. The theme of a tough journey includes disappointment due to deterioration in routines and future plans, feelings of loneliness and longing because of being far away from social support, concerns about uncertainties, fear of death, regrets about the past and having anger because of physical symptoms. The theme of together but alone includes coping by inclining towards religion, coping by trying to be strong, coping by hiding emotions, thoughts and needs and coping by crying. As well as due to intense feelings there may be less communication between patients and family caregivers, and they may have communication conflicts. The theme of companionship includes change in role balance, increased bonding and increased confidence. New horizons theme involves understanding their own values, understanding the value of being healthy, being more relaxed, being patient and learning to be compassionate and developing coping skills. Conclusion: Cancer disease and treatment is a difficult process for patients and family caregivers. It is important that nurses increase their coping by strengthening the relationship between the patient and the caregiver, by intervening in stress management and mutual communication. Key words: Cancer patients, Dyad, Family caregiver, Hematological cancers, Nursing, Qualitative.