The relationship between hope levels and unmet needs of caregivers of advanced cancer patients†.

Aim: The effects in cultural and health provisions can lead to different unmet support needs. Hope is seen as an important support, a supportive power, and an efficient coping strategy for cancer caregivers. The purpose of this study in Turkish society is to determine supportive care needs of caregivers of cancer patients, to determine the hope levels of those caring for cancer patients and foresee how variables and hope can trigger needs. Methods: To identify the unmet needs and hope levels of caregivers of advanced cancer patients in Turkish society. Data were collected using the Supportive Care Needs of Caregivers Scale and Herth Hope Index. Results: More than half of the advanced cancer caregivers (56.51%) reported unmet care needs. Their unmet needs and hope levels were above average. Regression analysis showed the total score for hope was related to health care and information needs, work‐social needs. Conclusion: Hope was related to health care and information needs and work‐social needs. Oncology nurses should focus on the unmet needs of caregivers, taking into account their cultural differences in order to raise their hopes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]