Characterization of functioning in breast cancer survivors: an interpretive descriptive analysis study based on the international classification of functioning, disability, and health (ICF) and the Item-Perspective Classification Framework

Abstract Purpose Breast cancer survivors experience a range of disabilities compromise their independent function. This study aimed to examine their perspectives and experts on their functioning and interpret concepts with the international classification of functioning, disability, and health (ICF) and the Item-Perspective Classification Framework (IPF). Methods Interpretive descriptive methods were used with in-depth interviewing with 16 breast cancer survivors and 22 experts using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and qualitatively analyzed using thematic analysis. The extracted data were linked to the ICF Core Set for Breast cancer and were interpreted by the IPF. Results Four main themes emerged to define the functioning of BC survivors: body functioning, physical functioning, social functioning, and mental functioning. Three other factors were also categorized as modifiers of functioning personal, emotional, and environmental. The 592 extracted meaningful concepts were linked to 38 (47%) categories from the ICF: 16 Body Functions, 14 Activities and Participation, and 8 Environmental Factors. The IPF classified all the extracted concepts, and most rational appraisals fell in the biological (B) domain. The concepts that required emotional appraisal were classified in Psychology (P). Conclusion Psychological and emotional factors were pivotal in defining functioning in patients with BC.