CCBIO Seminar – Karen Rosnes Gissum

Foreleser: Karen Rosnes Gissum
Tittel: Navigating Ovarian Cancer Complexities: A Shared Decision-Making Approach
Vert: Carina Strell
Sted: Auditorium 4, BB-bygget, Bergen
Når: 31. oktober 2024 kl. 14.30-15.30

Påmelding er ikke nødvendig. 

Språk for forelesningen er engelsk.

Karen Rosnes Gissum is a trained oncology nurse with clinical experience in the Gynecologic Cancer Section at the Women's Clinic (KK). She holds a master’s degree in Evidence-Based Practice and completed her doctorate at the Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO) and the Department of Clinical Science (K2) at the University of Bergen (UiB). She currently serves as the head of the Cancer Center for Education and Rehabilitation in the Cancer Department at Haukeland University Hospital.

Abstract: 

Background: Ovarian cancer presents significant challenges due to its severity and complexity. Despite advancements in precision oncology, prognosis remains poor, and patients experience a difficult journey marked by side effects that burden the healthcare system. Beyond medical expertise, patients require compassionate communication and holistic care from healthcare providers. While extensive research exists on ovarian cancer as a disease, there is limited information on the illness experience and perspectives of patients and healthcare professionals.

Aims: This project aimed to explore how patients and healthcare professionals perceive and respond to the illness trajectory of ovarian cancer.

Methods: Using phenomenological methodology and a qualitative design, we conducted five focus group discussions with a patient group (n=4), nine individual interviews with gynecologists (n=9), and five focus groups with nurses in gynecological oncology (n=26).

Results: Patients experience a profound disruption, confronting identity loss and estrangement from their bodies, often struggling to articulate these challenges and seeking supportive relationships with healthcare providers. Gynecologists and nurses view ovarian cancer as a severe and devastating disease. Nurses aim to provide holistic care, while gynecologists focus on disease treatment and technological solutions. However, healthcare professionals’ understanding of the patient illness experience remains limited, constrained by emotional challenges and systemic time pressures that hinder empathy and connection.

Conclusion and Implications: This project reveals the complexity of managing ovarian cancer from both patient and provider perspectives. Phenomenological insights underscore the need for holistic, patient-centered care that acknowledges the emotional and physical needs of ovarian cancer patients beyond medical interventions.