Research review of the supportive care needs of spouses of women with breast cancer.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES

To conduct an integrative review of the research describing the needs of spouses of women with breast cancer for direction in planning nursing interventions to meet their supportive care needs.

DATA SOURCES

Published articles and bibliographies from pertinent articles.

DATA SYNTHESIS

A base of knowledge exists regarding the emotional and psychosocial needs of spouses of women with breast cancer. Less is known about their spiritual, practical, and physical needs. Very little research has explored nursing interventions and supportive care needs.

CONCLUSIONS

Definite knowledge gaps exist regarding the needs of spouses of women with breast cancer. More research is required to develop and evaluate interventions that focus on these needs.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

A diagnosis of breast cancer is a distressing time for both women and their spouses. Ongoing research and the development of interventions are necessary to help spouses cope with the stress throughout the illness so that they may support their wives.