Secondary traumatic stress experiences of nurses caring for cancer patients.

The aim of this study was to explore secondary traumatic stress experiences of nurses caring for cancer patients.A qualitative descriptive approach was taken in the study. The team conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with 13 oncology nurses. We evaluated the responses collected using content analysis.Three distinct themes emerged from the interviews: cycle of desperation, coping, and change.Based on the results obtained, it is suggested that programs containing cognitive restructuring techniques be developed; peer support groups may enable senior nurses to guide inexperienced nurses.