Care strategies for people with cancer in light of Uncertainty in Illness Theory.

OBJECTIVES

to describe the care strategies used by people with cancer in the face of uncertainty in illness.

METHODS

a qualitative study was conducted at an oncology unit in southern Brazil, using semi-structured interviews with 14 people undergoing cancer treatment in July 2024, which were subsequently subjected to categorical content analysis.

RESULTS

it was identified that people undergoing cancer treatment use different care strategies to cope with uncertainty in illness, including artistic activities, psychological support, use of technology, maintenance of daily activities, attention to appearance, leisure time and celebration with family, connection with the environment, and complementary therapies.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: the strategies mentioned positively impacted coping with uncertainty and strengthening the autonomy of people undergoing cancer treatment.