ANNOUNCEMENT OF DOCTORAL FINAL EXAMINATION for Brenda Hulett, MSN, RN

EXPERIENCES OF LIVING IN REMISSION WITH MULTIPLE MYELOMA

Abstract

Chair: Catherine Van Son, PhD, RN, ANEF, FGSA, FAAN

Aims: This descriptive phenomenology qualitative study explored the following question, “What is the lived experience of individuals diagnosed with multiple myeloma (MM) in remission following a period of active disease with treatment?

Aim 1: Assess the lived experience of individuals diagnosed with MM during remission after one or more occurrence of active disease with treatment.

Aim 2: Expound on specific experiences that describe the remission period for individuals with MM, particularly how remission is coped with and identified needs.

Aim 3: Explore how individuals diagnosed with MM define and describe their quality of life during remission.

Background: Cancer knowledge has grown over the last several decades, leading to improved treatments and more individuals experiencing cures and extended remissions. Multiple myeloma, a blood cancer, has experienced increased remission periods. Multiple myeloma weakens the immune system, causes kidney damage, and weakens bones, leading to fractures. It predominately affects older adults, with 69 years old being the median age at diagnosis.

Multiple myeloma is cyclical, marked with active disease and remission periods. Relapse will occur for all individuals diagnosed with MM. Remission with MM involves ongoing treatment and regular oncology appointments to monitor for treatment side effects and disease relapse. The current literature does not contain research on those in remission with MM, particularly regarding their quality of life.

Methods: Cancer support groups were used to recruit participants from the Pacific Northwest. Colaizzi’s (1978) seven-step analysis process was used to examine the data. Direct quotes from participants were used in formulating themes and subthemes. Data was collected through phone interviews.

Assessment of Findings: 12 recruited participants were determined eligible for the study (See Table 1). Analysis of the interview data revealed three themes and nine subthemes (See Table 2). Theme 1: “A sense of an axe hanging over your head” – Living with MM. Theme 2: “Every day’s a gift” – Hope. Theme 3: “It’s an opportunity to give and receive support” – Community.

Conclusions: This study highlights the unique needs of those in MM remission. Future research in MM remission may include development of a clinical tool to assist healthcare providers understand the goals of care of cancer survivors in remission. Increased utilization of oncology nurse navigators should be studied to determine the best process for connecting MM clients with resources such as support groups and financial aid.