Table 3

Categories and Exemplars of Patient-nominated Effects of Neutropenia

Major Category Specific Problem Domain
Illustrative Exemplars in Patients' Own Words

Physical Complaints

     Tired, fatigued, exhausted, weak, feeling "drained"
If I walk from one room to the next, I'm worn out.
     Reduced sexual activity
It has definitely slowed down. I don't have a great deal of interest.
Daily Routine Disruptions

     Loss of daily routine
I have stopped going to church and taking my son to school.
     Difficulties with household activities
I have stopped most everything. I am not doing my housework.
Negative Thought and Self Evaluation

     Worrying about paying for extra care needed
If I don't work, I don't get paid. It's getting very scary.
     Feeling useless/helpless, letting people down
I feel guilty when I see other people doing work I should be doing.
Negative Emotions

     Feeling down
I feel like giving up. I just wish it would all end.
     Feeling anxious
I am scared. I hope I don't have to go through this (neutropenia) the next three times I come here.
Social Relationships

     Decreased social contacts and activity
I can't spend time with other people because I am sick.
     Avoiding crowds
I don't go to church because someone might hug me or sneeze near me.

Note: This table contains selected exemplars of the problem domains presented by patients in the five broad categories identified as follows: Physical Complaints, Daily Routine Disruptions, Negative Thought and Self Evaluation, Negative Emotions, and Social Relationships.

Fortner et al. BMC Nursing 2005 4:4   doi:10.1186/1472-6955-4-4