Déficience intellectuelle et oncologie : les connaissances des soignants suffisent-elles à une prise en charge adaptée de la douleur chez ces patients ?

Abstract

Introduction

The life expectancy of people with intellectual disabilities is increasing thanks to medical advances, and the risk of developing cancer in this population is high.

Objectives

This study focuses between oncology caregivers’ training in intellectual disability and the impact this has on their daily practice, particularly in the assessment and treatment of painful symptomatology.

Method

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 caregivers, all of whom had cared for intellectually disabled cancer patients at least once in their careers.

Results

Thematic content analysis revealed a lack of knowledge of intellectual disability on the part of caregivers, and a concern on the part of professionals to care for these patients. This lack of knowledge hampers the care given to these patients, and interferes with the assessment and treatment of pain.

Conclusion

This type of study enables us to understand the obstacles to care with this specific population, in particular the fear of caregivers of not recognizing pain and not being able to relieve it adequately due to difficulties in communicating with patients. Training for healthcare professionals would help develop their professional attitudes, enabling them to identify and respond to changes in patient behaviour.