Affiliations: [a] Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| [b] Department of Pediatric Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| [c] Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
Correspondence:
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Address for correspondence: Mohammad Zirak, Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Student Research Committee, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Shariati-Jonubi st., Tabriz, Iran. Fax: +98 4134796969; E-mail: mohammadzirak@gmail.com.
Abstract: BACKGROUND:Returning to work after cancer is a complicated phenomenon. OBJECTIVE:This study aimed to explore Iranian cancer survivors’ concerns during returning to work. METHODS:This qualitative study was conducted on 19 cancer survivors at a referral center of cancer Northwest of Iran. Data were collected through individual semi-structured interviews and analyzed using a conventional content analysis method. RESULTS:“Taking an obscure path” emerged as a main concern of cancer survivors in returning to work which included three categories of limited Information, hesitation in personal abilities and worry about the reactions of workplace. CONCLUSIONS:Cancer survivors were uncertain about returning to work. This uncertainty can distress cancer survivors in the process of returning to work and may cause them to delay the process. The staff of healthcare systems including physicians, nurses and occupational rehabilitation specialists must address the concerns of cancer survivors and prepare them to return to work. Moreover, by working in collaboration with employers, rehabilitation specialists must provide appropriate conditions for cancer survivors to safely return to the workplaces.
Keywords: Uncertainty, cancer, return to work, Iran, qualitative research
