Exploring resilience in decision making for breast reconstruction in women with breast cancer

Revell, Karla

Abstract

This thesis portfolio comprises three parts:
Part One: Systematic Literature Review
The systematic literature review explored women’s experiences of shared decision-making for breast reconstruction following a mastectomy. Following a systematic search of six databases, eleven qualitative studies were identified and analysed using thematic synthesis. Three main aspects of shared decision-making important to women when making breast reconstruction decisions were generated: patient-clinician relationship, information preferences are individual, and the need for shared decision-making post-surgery. Clinical implications and further areas of research are discussed.
Part Two: Empirical Paper
The empirical paper explored experiences of resilience is decision-making for breast reconstruction following a mastectomy in women with breast cancer. Eight participants participated in semi-structured interviews. Using Interpretive Phenomonological Analysis (IPA), resilience was present in three areas of decision-making: actively participating in decision-making, asserting values and goals, and accepting the unexpected: effects, delays and complications. Clinical implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Part Three comprises the Appendices
The appendices include the researcher’s epistemological and reflective statements. Information related to the quality and characteristics of the studies included in the systematic literature review is also present. Materials related to the design and procedure of the empirical paper are also included.

Citation

Revell, K. (2024). Exploring resilience in decision making for breast reconstruction in women with breast cancer. (Thesis). University of Hull. https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4910691

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Nov 7, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 19, 2024
• Keywords: Clinical psychology
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4910691
• Additional Information: School of Psychology and Social Work; University of Hull
• Award Date: Oct 3, 2024