<Journal> </Journal>

<ArticleTitle>Why differences exist? an interpretive approach to nurses' perceptions of cancer patients' quality of life</ArticleTitle>

<FirstPage>316</FirstPage>

<LastPage>316</LastPage>

<Language>EN</Language>

<AuthorList></AuthorList>

<History></History>

<Abstract>BACKGROUND: Based on the literature review that was conducted, no research study has been found in Australia to provide a detailed understanding of why nurses differ in their perceptions about cancer patients&rsquo; Quality of Life (QoL) when they&nbsp; communicate with patients in oncology wards.METHODS: This descriptive exploratory qualitative study was completed in 2007 in two major public hospitals in Adelaide, South Australia. 10 nurses from different inpatient and outpatient oncology services and a palliative setting took part in semi-structured interviews.RESULTS: After the data collection and analysis six main themes were identified. Differences in nurses&rsquo; perceptions about cancer patients&rsquo; QoL were discussed in the light of the sub theme &ldquo;relationship and rapport&rdquo;.CONCLUSIONS: In general, participants commented that differences existing between patients&rsquo; and nurses&rsquo; perceptions about cancer patients&rsquo; QoL were due to a poor relationship and rapport between cancer patients and their nurses. Therefore, nurses need to have a genuine interest to make an open relationship with patients in a non-judgmental way. This rapport needs to go beyond the patient and include other health care professionals as well as the patient&rsquo;s family.KEY WORDS: Cancer, quality of life, nurses, patients, qualitative research, perceptions.</Abstract>