[Living with a multitude of medicaments: experiences of patients with cancer]

The ability to handle a complex medication regimen is important for patients with cancer being treated on an outpatient basis, because many of them have to take drugs for oral chemotherapy, against cancer-related symptoms, side effects of the treatments, and preexisting conditions. This qualitative study examined how patients experienced a complex medication regimen and how they managed it at home. Interviews were conducted with 12 patients from oncology outpatients units and analysed by means of content analysis. Patients knew their medications. They took them mainly as prescribed because they regarded them as a safeguard against deterioration and a life-saver. In addition, they trusted their doctors and felt obliged to them to take the medications. The doctor-patient relationship was supported by constant treatment settings. Even so, the patients would rather have taken less or no medications at all, primarily because of fear of side effects. In order to guarantee a regular intake, the patients linked the medications with specific places, times, and activities and developed routines and rituals. Nurses were hardly perceived with regard to medications and medication management. It is recommended that patients with complex medication regimens are assigned to constant mentors amongst health professionals. These mentors should check patients' medication knowledge, attitudes and management strategies on a regular basis and either encourage sound performance or assist patients in developing an acceptable way of medication taking and handling.