Developing a rehabilitation model of breast cancer patients through literature review and hospital rehabilitation programs.

PURPOSE This study aimed to develop a rehabilitation model of breast cancer patients through review of literature and available online hospital rehabilitation programs. METHODS Electronic searches of the literature related to rehabilitation programs of breast cancer patients in Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature, PubMed Clinical Queries, and Academic Search were carried out. In addition, hospital websites were reviewed for their rehabilitation programs, which in turn were reviewed and analyzed regarding their contents. RESULTS The four dimensions, 12 categories, and concepts related to rehabilitation of breast cancer patients were uncovered. The four dimensions were concerns and problems, types of rehabilitation, activities, and quality of life. The 12 categories consisted of 2 categories in concerns and problems, 4 categories in types of rehabilitation, 4 categories in activities, and 2 categories in quality of life. A rehabilitation model for breast cancer patients was constructed that was grounded in the four dimensions, 12 categories, and concepts. CONCLUSION Rehabilitation of breast cancer patients deserves special attention to achieve optimal quality of life. Health care professionals need to be educated about rehabilitation as an effective intervention.