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KMID : 1128620110150010097
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Cung-Ang Journal of Nursing
2011 Volume.15 No. 1 p.97 ~ p.107
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Gynecologic Peer Mentoring : Educational Impact for Gynecologic Cancer Survivors, a Needs Assessment
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Singh-Carison
Cindy Gotz
Randal Snyder
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Abstract
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Background:Although some gynecological caners (GC) are treatable, there is still an increased incidence rate of GC. Evidence indicates the need for psychosocial support for GC survivors. To address a lack of psychosocial support for the GC patients, a peer mentor program was designed to train GC survivors to be peer mentors.
Methods:Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key informants. Needs assessment was utilized to develop a curriculum to educate GC survivors to be peer mentors to assist others over the phose or in person. A six module course included: didactic lecture, guest speakers, group discussion, self-study, and role play.
Results:Participants ranged in age 36 to 65 with the majority being treated for overian cancer. Pre/Post-test assessment reflected noteworthy knowledge gains by participants who attended the program. Largest gains were attributed to increased confidence related to available resources for GC and ability to describe GC biological issues. After training, new mentors had more confidence to interact with newly diagnosed mentees.
Discussion/Conclusions: A repeated refrain throughout the training was that this information had not been available earlier when the mentors were under-going treatment themselves. Of women who were matched with a mentor, three attended other support groups, providing qualitative iinsight related to the importance of another venue for support outside the traditional group setting. Further development of research realted to impact on patient quality of life is needed.
Implications for Cancer Survivors: Results provide clear direction that support in the form of peer mentoring enhances survivors health and well-bing post treatment.
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KEYWORD
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Peer mentor group , Peer support , Gynecological cancer , Cancer survivors , Survivorship
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