'It's all bad news': the first 3 months following a diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study explores patient's experience during the first 3 months following a diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma. METHODS: This study uses a grounded theory approach with semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with 10 patients during the first 3 months following diagnosis. RESULTS: The key concept that emerged from the data was this Uncertainty and lack of control leading to emotional, physical and psychosocial distress. Three themes informed the key concept ' it's all bad news', 'good and bad days' and strategies of amelioration. Patients worked with a short-term perspective on their illness but worried about the long-term outcome and the speed of their deterioration. CONCLUSIONS: Patients receive insufficient psychosocial support during the first 3 months following diagnosis. An early palliative care referral would improve support and referral strategies during the first 3 months of the disease.