Background:

Receiving a diagnosis of cancer often means suffering for the affected, but if the individual can see some kind of hope in the situation, it is possible to move on. Coping is a matter of adapting to difficult life situations. Promoting health and quality of life are main objectives when it comes to cancer care. The nurse will see and respond to the patient's experience of illness and suffering and have an ethical approach with a holistic approach.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to describe patients experiences after receiving a cancer diagnosis.

Method:

Qualitative litterature review where twelve articles were analysed regarding similarities and differences. Based on the analysis four main categories and three subcategories were identified.

Results:

Experiences of crisis, after receiving a cancer diagnosis, were dominated by anxiety and uncertainty. To reduce the mental stress and find some kind of security and stability the patients felt a need for information and support. How patients were able to accept their situation and move on was dependent on a positive attitude, a desire to live and the ability to maintain their daily routine.

Conclusion:

If cancer patients receive appropriate information, at the right times, and various forms of support this will help the individual to find some form of security, stability and hope in the situation