Document Detail


Coping with cancer: a brief report on stress and coping strategies in medical students dealing with cancer patients.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  20878845     Owner:  NLM     Status:  In-Data-Review    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
Background: This pilot study explored factors associated with stress in medical students during their initial clinical contact with cancer patients, in particular identifying stress levels and coping strategies used. Methods: A total of 80 medical students at The University of Birmingham Medical School, UK, completed retrospective self-report questionnaires measuring socio-demographics, potential stressors and coping strategies (using the Brief COPE inventory). Statistical analysis followed data collection. Findings: Of all socio-demographic categories, female gender correlated with the highest stress score (p<0.05). The most stressful situations reported related to the patient's condition, the biopsychosocial effects of the cancer on the patient and his/her family, and breaking bad news. A combination of problem- and emotion-focussed strategies were used to manage stress; and the extent of their usage was significantly related to individual stress levels (p<0.01) in both instances. Interpretation: Medical students in an oncology setting experience moderate stress and utilise a combination of problem- and emotion-focussed coping strategies to combat this stress. A greater use of both coping strategies was seen in students experiencing higher levels of stress. This may suggest a relative lack of effective coping skills. In light of this, the implementation of coping strategy training as a part of the medical course and/or support groups may be beneficial. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Authors:
Francesca M E Jones; Jodie L Fellows; David J de L Horne
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Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article    
Journal Detail:
Title:  Psycho-oncology     Volume:  20     ISSN:  1099-1611     ISO Abbreviation:  Psychooncology     Publication Date:  2011 Feb 
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2011-01-28     Completed Date:  -     Revised Date:  -    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  9214524     Medline TA:  Psychooncology     Country:  England    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  219-23     Citation Subset:  IM    
Copyright Information:
Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Affiliation:
Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Gloucestershire, UK. Francescamary.jones@nhs.net.
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