The experience of caring for an advanced lung cancer spouse: Vulnerable journey of caregiving

Objective: The aim of this study is to gain a deep understanding of the experience of carrying the role of spousal caregiver of an advanced lung cancer partner during treatment in hospital. Methods: A qualitative, descriptive phenomenology approach was applied to nine participants, who were chosen based on being in a vulnerable group: female, male, and elderly caregivers. Data collection was done using in-depth interviews. Colaizzi's method was applied in data analysis. Results: The findings revealed three themes shared from the participants' perspectives and experiences about the caregiver role: changing roles in the family, sincerity in caring for an ill partner, and changes in closeness with the spouse. Conclusion: Spousal caregivers have an important role in patient treatment and also need interventions to enable them to perform and adjust to the caregiver role. (C) 2019 Elsevier Espana, S.L.U. All rights reserved.