Purpose: The purpose of this study was to describe the prerequisites required for the provision and use of web-based communication for psychosocial support within a haematology clinic, from a patient and family perspective. Method: A qualitative design using content analysis was used. A strategically selected sample of patients ( n ¼ 11) and family members ( n ¼ 6) were offered access to a web-based communication capability with a nurse. After four months, individual interviews were conducted with all participants, in order to identify necessary prerequisites. Results: Preferences and characteristics of the individual patient or family member are crucial as to whether web-based communication for support is perceived as useful. To feel comfortable with writing and to self-identify the need for support are fundamental in getting motivated to use web-based com- munication. An effective organization around psychosocial support in general is another prerequisite. Goals and responsibilities must be clearly de fi ned for patients and family members to understand their rights and enable the transformation of opportunities into practice. The use of web-based communi- cation must also be a convenient and naturally incorporated part of both individual and organizational use of the web in general. Conclusions: Prerequisites of taking into account caretakers ’ different preferences and needs, providing highly structured psychosocial support activities and providing a congruent range of web services, are necessary for successful provision and use of web-based communication for psychosocial support.

Background: Being critically ill with a hematological disease is a challenge, sometimes causing a need for support in the adjustment to the stressful life situation. By providing Web-based communication for support from a nurse, patients get access to an alternative and untraditional way to communicate their issues. Objective: The aim was to describe the meaning of using Web-based communication for support from a patient perspective. Methods: A comprehensive randomized pilot study (n = 30) was conducted, allowing 15 patients in the experimental group to have access to the Web-based communication, to evaluate feasibility. Of these 15 participants, 10 were interviewed, focusing on their experiences. An empirical hermeneutical approach was used and the interpretive analysis focused on the meanings. Results: Web-based communication for support means a space for patients to have their say, consolidation of a matter, an extended caring relationship, access to individual medical assessment, and an opportunity for emotional processing. The main interpretation indicates that the patient's influence on the communication strengthens according to the asynchronous, faceless, and written communication. The increased, and in some sense constant, access to an individual medical and caring assessment, in turn, implies a feeling of safety. Conclusion: Web-based communication for support seems to have the potential to enhance patients' participation on their own terms. Implications for Practice: To achieve the possible advantages of Web-based communication for support, nurses must acquire knowledge about caring writing. It requires respect for the patient and articulated accuracy and attention in the response given.