Knowledge and performance of caregivers having children with cancer undergoing chemotherapy

Abstract

Background: Cancer is a leading cause of death for children worldwide. More than 80% of children with cancer are cured in high-income countries, but only 20% are cured in many low-income countries. Aim of the study was: To assess the knowledge and performance of caregivers having children with cancer undergoing chemotherapy.Research design: A descriptive research design was used in the current study.Sample: A purposive sample of 35 caregivers having children with cancer and undergoing chemotherapy was participated in the study.Setting: The current study was conducted in the pediatric unit at Minia Oncology Center.Three Tools were: Tool (I): Structured Interview Sheet: it covered the personal data of the caregivers and the characteristics of the child; Tool (II): Caregivers Knowledge Assessment Sheet and Tool (III): Caregivers Performance Assessment Sheet.Results: There was lacking in knowledge and performance of Caregivers having children with cancer undergoing chemotherapy. There were no statistically significant relationships between the total mean scores of caregivers' knowledge and total caregivers' practice regarding childhood cancer and chemotherapy as well as their personal data as age, level of education, their children's age, gender and the child's rank in the family (p=>0.05).Conclusion: The study concluded that the overall level of caregivers' knowledge and performance was unsatisfactory. Personal variables have no impact on the knowledge and performance of the caregivers.Recommendation: The study recommended that developing periodic educational programs and instructions to caregivers having children with cancer undergoing chemotherapy would improve their knowledge and performance regarding childhood cancer and chemotherapy.