Social Workers in Pediatric Oncology: A Qualitative Study in Iranian Context

Abstract

Background: As professionals, social workers have a special position in relation to considering the needs of<br />children with cancer and their families. Hence, it is important to recognize the experiences and challenges of social<br />workers to improve care of their clients. Method: This study was a qualitative content analysis that aimed to determine<br />a comprehensive understanding of pediatric oncology social workers' experiences in Iran. In total, 19 social workers<br />participated in the study. A purposeful sampling method was applied until reaching data saturation. Data were collected<br />using semi-structured interviews and field observations. Then, the gathered data were analyzed through face content<br />analysis. The study lasted from 2015 to 2017. Finding: Concepts extracted from social workers' experiences consisted<br />of the nature of oncology work, lack of professional competence, low organizational support and professional inferiority<br />that were related to main concept of “exhausting and stressful service". The results indicated that social workers'<br />involvement in stressful and emotionally demanding situations and facing with professional and organizational<br />challenges caused personal exhaustion. Conclusion: In addition to explaining the social workers' experiences and<br />related factors, the results emphasize the importance of taking care of service providers to prevent them becoming<br />stressed and exhausted. It is also important to protect patients from the consequences of stressed and exhausted care<br />providers so further research is recommended to develop specific intervention.