Characteristics of Stress and Experiences in the Relationship with Patients of Oncologists in Valledupar, Colombia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5209/psic.101744
Keywords: Oncologists, Life Experiences, Stress, Emotions, Cancer Care Facilities

Abstract

Introduction: This study addresses the stress of general practitioners and oncologists in a medium-sized city in Colombia. Its objectives were: 1) to describe the characteristics of stress among oncologists and 2) to analyze their experiences in the doctor-patient relationship.

Method: An integrative design of methods was implemented. Data collection consisted of the Nowak Stress Profile to quantitatively measure stress and semi-structured interviews to delve deeper into the oncologists' experiences.

Results: Physicians have psychological tools to maintain their mental health and that of their patients. The test results do not indicate significant or conclusive alarms; while the prescribed stress levels reflect exposure to stressful events, specialists diagnose them and take appropriate action. Protective emotional components, such as job satisfaction, are positively identified, while stressful components, such as bureaucratic procedures, impact their work and relationships with patients. Conclusion: Stress is a common symptom in oncology medical practice. Contrary to reports in the literature, this population does not experience extreme emotional crises. Risk factors are determined individually, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and healthy mental health habits among these professionals.

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Author Biographies

Rodrigo Ruiz-Lurduy, Fundación Universitaria del Área Andina

Doc. en Antropología, Mg. en Sociología, Antropólogo.

Mayte Zubillaga Páez , Fundación Universitaria del Área Andina

Doc. en Ciencias de la Educación, Mg. en Desarrollo Educativo y Social, Psicóloga.

Isadora Blanco Pérez , Fundación Universitaria del Área Andina

Doc. en Ciencias de la Educación Área Pensamiento Educativo y Comunicación, Mg. Scientiarum en Medicina Estomatológica, Esp. en pedagogía y docencia, Odontóloga.

Ángel Alexis Muegues-Salas , Fundación Universitaria del Área Andina

Mg en Toxicología, Mg en Farmacología, Esp. en Epidemiología, Médico.

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Published
2025-11-07
How to Cite
Ruiz-Lurduy R., Zubillaga Páez M., Blanco Pérez I. . y Muegues-Salas Á. A. . (2025). Characteristics of Stress and Experiences in the Relationship with Patients of Oncologists in Valledupar, Colombia. Psicooncología, 22(2), 241-257. https://doi.org/10.5209/psic.101744
Issue
Vol. 22 No. 2 (2025)
Section
Articles

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