Care Beyond Limitations: Lived Experiences of Non-specialized Nurse Practitioners Handling Breast Cancer Patients

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of breast cancer, coupled with the shortage of oncology nurses, places the responsibility of patient care on non-specialized nurse practitioners. Despite limited training and expertise, these nurses strive to address the multifaceted needs of breast cancer patients. This study explores the lived experiences of non-specialized nurse practitioners in providing care for breast cancer patients within various health settings in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. Employing a qualitative descriptive phenomenological research design, the study used purposive sampling to select seven (7) non-specialized nurse practitioners as participants. Data were collected through in-depth, face-to-face interviews, which were recorded, transcribed, validated, and refined for accuracy. Colaizzi’s descriptive phenomenological method guided the data coding process, while Van Manen’s lifeworld existential framework informed the analysis. Three themes emerged from the findings: (1) caring with caution, (2) caring with grit, and (3) caring with confidence. The results reveal that non-specialized nurse practitioners evolve through their experiences in breast cancer care, overcoming initial limitations and progressively building competence and confidence. Continuous patient interactions serve as a catalyst for professional growth, with experience becoming their greatest teacher. This study underscores the resilience and adaptability of non-specialized nurse practitioners and highlights the importance of providing targeted training and support to enhance their skills and confidence in managing complex cancer care.