Influence of Uncertainty and Uncertainty Appraisal on Quality of Life in Prostate Cancer Patients after Prostatectomy

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of uncertainty and uncertainty appraisal on quality of life (QoL) among prostate cancer patients after prostatectomy. METHODS: A descriptive correlational study was conducted with 117 participants at a hospital in S city from October 1 to December 31, 2016. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson's correlation coefficients and stepwise multiple regression using the IBM SPSS/WIN 21.0 program. RESULTS: According to a multiple regression model of the factors affecting QoL among prostate cancer patients after the operation, 61% of variance (F=13.92, p<.001) was explained by metastasis, recurrence, monthly income, uncertainty, uncertainty danger appraisal, and uncertainty opportunity appraisal. And the most influential factor in the QoL was uncertainty danger appraisal (β=-.37, p<.001). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that QoL was influenced by uncertainty, uncertainty appraisal and personal characteristics. Prostate cancer patients following prostatectomy should be provided with tailored training to improve their uncertainty opportunity appraisal. Also the educational program for reducing their uncertainty should be developed and provided to patients.