Educational and career goal attainments in young adult childhood cancer survivors

J Spec Pediatr Nurs. 2017 Apr;22(2). doi: 10.1111/jspn.12180.

Abstract

Purpose: Examine the educational and career outcomes of young adult childhood cancer survivors.

Design and methods: Descriptive study design using a survey sent to 336 survivors. Quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed separately.

Results: Only 50 completed surveys were returned. Having a central nervous system tumor and radiation were associated with physical impairments. Four themes also emerged: future as medical professionals, dreams fallen short, peer relationships, and positive outlook on life.

Practice implications: Pediatric nurses caring for survivors should partner with oncology professionals to support survivors to enrich their educational and career opportunities.

Keywords: attainment; cancer survivors; career; education; pediatric.

MeSH terms

  • Career Choice*
  • Education*
  • Educational Status
  • Female
  • Goals*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neoplasms / psychology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Survivors / psychology*
  • Young Adult