Duan Y, Yuan L, Niu Q
… +5 more, Li Y, Chen X, Zhang X, Zou D, Zhou Z
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Apr · PMID 42189650
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OBJECTIVES: To examine the effectiveness of sandplay therapy in reducing emotional problems and enhancing quality of life in children with central nervous system (CNS) tumors. SAMPLE & SETTING: This randomized contro...OBJECTIVES: To examine the effectiveness of sandplay therapy in reducing emotional problems and enhancing quality of life in children with central nervous system (CNS) tumors. SAMPLE & SETTING: This randomized controlled trial was conducted in a tertiary hospital in China from January to August 2024, involving 56 children aged 6-14 years with CNS tumors. METHODS & VARIABLES: The intervention and control groups received regular treatment, and the intervention group received an additional four sessions of sandplay therapy. Data were collected at baseline and at 5 weeks and 12 weeks after baseline. The children's scores on three assessments before and after the intervention were analyzed using a mixed-effects model. RESULTS: Participants in the intervention group reported statistically significant lower depression and anxiety scores and higher quality-of-life scores than the control group at 5- and 12-week follow-up. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Sandplay therapy can reduce depression and anxiety and enhance quality of life in children with CNS tumors. Sandplay therapy is feasible and effective in developing psychological support interventions for children.
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Apr · PMID 42189649
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PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis investigated the impact of Pilates on pain, fatigue, sleep quality, and depression among patients with breast cancer. LITERATURE SEARCH: Eight data...PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis investigated the impact of Pilates on pain, fatigue, sleep quality, and depression among patients with breast cancer. LITERATURE SEARCH: Eight databases were searched for studies with randomized controlled trials published between January 2017 and May 2024. DATA EVALUATION: Six studies (N = 531) were identified and reviewed. SYNTHESIS: Pilates significantly improved pain (Hedges's g = -0.634, 95% confidence interval [CI] [-1.2, -0.07], p = 0.027), indicating a medium effect size. Pilates also showed a tendency to improve fatigue (Hedges's g = -0.182, 95% CI [-0.47, 0.1], p = 0.208), with a small effect size, and sleep quality (Hedges's g = 0.335, 95% CI [-0.2, 0.87], p = 0.216), with a small to medium effect size, although these effects were not statistically significant. Results regarding the effect of Pilates on depression were mixed. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Nurses can incorporate Pilates into pain management for patients with breast cancer, providing resources and guidelines for safely practicing this type of exercise.
Ho R, Ren D, Deng Z
… +6 more, Rosenzweig M, Marsland AL, Drappatz J, Loughan AR, Donovan HS, Sherwood P
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41812020
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OBJECTIVES: To determine the effect of neighborhood level indices of socioeconomic status on interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in family caregivers of patients wit...OBJECTIVES: To determine the effect of neighborhood level indices of socioeconomic status on interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in family caregivers of patients with a primary malignant brain tumor. SAMPLE & SETTING: Baseline data were obtained from 120 family caregivers of patients with a primary malignant brain tumor. METHODS & VARIABLES: High-sensitivity CRP, IL-6, and IL-1RA levels were assessed from 5 ml of blood. Standardized neighborhood deprivation and social vulnerability levels were obtained using metrics from the U.S. Census Bureau, and sociodemographic information was collected via self-report. Final analyses were performed using multivariate linear regression adjusting for potential covariates. RESULTS: Higher neighborhood deprivation was associated with higher CRP (p = 0.05) and IL-6 levels (p = 0.08), and higher levels of social vulnerability (p = 0.05) were significantly associated with higher CRP levels. A trend (p = 0.1) was found between social vulnerability and IL-6 levels. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Recognizing the characteristics placing neuro-oncology caregivers at risk for compromised immunity can inform health strategies and targeted interventions. Indices of environmental vulnerability can identify individuals for whom reduction of inflammation should be a primary target to improve quality of life and overall health.
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41812019
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OBJECTIVES: To assess racial and ethnic differences in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening and shared decision-making (SDM) and examine whether SDM modifies screening rates by race and ethnicity. SAMPLE & SETTING:...OBJECTIVES: To assess racial and ethnic differences in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening and shared decision-making (SDM) and examine whether SDM modifies screening rates by race and ethnicity. SAMPLE & SETTING: Data from the 2021-2023 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System were analyzed, including 10,778 men aged 55-69 years eligible for PSA screening. METHODS & VARIABLES: Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests assessed racial and ethnic differences in PSA screening and estimated SDM (eSDM) use. Multiple logistic regression models evaluated the impact of eSDM on PSA screening rates, including an interaction term for race and ethnicity and eSDM. RESULTS: Among the sample, 46% reported undergoing PSA screening in the past year. eSDM was a significant predictor of PSA screening. After adjusting for eSDM and covariates, racial disparities in screening rates were no longer significant. Only Asian American men showed a significantly lower likelihood of screening following SDM exposure compared to White men. IMPLICATION FOR NURSING: SDM can reduce racial and ethnic disparities in PSA screening. In addition, factors like healthcare access significantly influence screening rates, requiring targeted investigation. The results call for further investigation to culturally optimize SDM.
Rangwala M, Baafi Oduro E, McGeorge NM
… +4 more, Deighton D, Kleckner I, Renn CL, Kleckner A
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41812018
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PURPOSE: To describe clinicians' perspectives on POSTHOC (POSt-Treatment Healthcare Outcomes for Cancer survivors), a survivorship care plan (SCP) smartphone application (app). PARTICIPANTS & SETTING: 14 clinicians, incl...PURPOSE: To describe clinicians' perspectives on POSTHOC (POSt-Treatment Healthcare Outcomes for Cancer survivors), a survivorship care plan (SCP) smartphone application (app). PARTICIPANTS & SETTING: 14 clinicians, including 5 nurses, were recruited from oncology (n = 9) and other allied medical fields (n = 5). METHODOLOGIC APPROACH: Semistructured interviews about the clinician portal and patient-facing app were conducted to assess usability and utility. FINDINGS: Participants reported many positive perceptions regarding the SCP app, noting its accessibility, accountability tools, and ability to promote patient-provider communication at and in between appointments. Participants also noted several negative perceptions, such as the expectation for immediate clinician interaction. Clinicians commented on technical aspects and features of the SCP app to improve data usability (e.g., personalization, customization), minimize redundancy, and streamline feasibility and utility in the clinic. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Clinicians encouraged the continuation of the SCP app development with specific feedback for improvement.
Arthur EK, Anderson V, Robertson T
… +7 more, Rechenberg K, Geiss C, Fulton HJ, Essa M, Arzola S, Szalacha LA, Menon U
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41812017
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OBJECTIVES: To explore the intersectionality of sexual health and cancer survivorship care in women among minority groups as well as their partners to illuminate the unique challenges faced. SAMPLE & SETTING: Women cance...OBJECTIVES: To explore the intersectionality of sexual health and cancer survivorship care in women among minority groups as well as their partners to illuminate the unique challenges faced. SAMPLE & SETTING: Women cancer survivors cohabitating with a partner for at least six months in the Tampa Bay area in Florida who self-identify as a sexual, racial, or ethnic minority (n = 11) and their partners (n = 3) were included in the study. METHODS & VARIABLES: Semistructured interviews were conducted to gain an understanding of survivor and partner experiences and perspectives related to sexual healthcare delivery after cancer. RESULTS: Providers often failed to address survivors' sexual health. Participants felt uncomfortable discussing sexual health with their providers because of their backgrounds, experiences, and cultural taboos about sex. Some participants experienced a lack of partner support to pursue sexual health interventions. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Oncology nurses and advanced practice professionals need to be trained to prioritize sexual health among minority women cancer survivors and facilitate comfortable, culturally competent conversations about sexual health.
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41812016
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OBJECTIVES: To examine the effects of live and robotic cat-assisted therapies on chemotherapy-induced symptoms and happiness levels in patients with cancer. SAMPLE & SETTING: 45 patients were randomly assigned to live ca...OBJECTIVES: To examine the effects of live and robotic cat-assisted therapies on chemotherapy-induced symptoms and happiness levels in patients with cancer. SAMPLE & SETTING: 45 patients were randomly assigned to live cat therapy, robotic cat therapy, or control groups in a university hospital. METHODS & VARIABLES: Data were collected between June 1 and September 1, 2023. Patients in therapy groups interacted with a live or robotic cat for 20 minutes twice weekly for three months. RESULTS: Although the live cat therapy group had higher median happiness scores than the robotic cat therapy group, differences in happiness and symptom scores between groups were not statistically significant. Both therapies alleviated chemotherapy-induced symptoms and enhanced emotional well-being, with robotic cat therapy showing slightly greater overall effectiveness. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Robotic pet therapy offers a feasible alternative where live animal-assisted therapy is impractical. Integrating these therapies into oncology nursing can enhance symptom management and psychological support, promoting holistic, patient-centered care.
Bratnichenko V, McDonnell KK, Amburg P
… +2 more, Wright PJ, Wang K
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41812015
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PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION: Eastern European immigrants in the United States face disproportionately higher cancer mortality because of delayed detection. Understanding the specific barriers and facilitators affecting this p...PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION: Eastern European immigrants in the United States face disproportionately higher cancer mortality because of delayed detection. Understanding the specific barriers and facilitators affecting this population is essential for designing interventions that improve screening uptake and reduce cancer-related morbidity. LITERATURE SEARCH: A database search identified U.S.-based, peer-reviewed studies focused on Eastern European immigrant adults aged 18 years or older. DATA EVALUATION: Rayyan software supported article screening and management. Nine studies met inclusion criteria, and key information on study characteristics, methods, and outcomes was extracted. SYNTHESIS: Many studies grouped Eastern European immigrants with broader immigrant populations, with breast cancer being the most frequently examined condition. Common barriers to screening included fear, language challenges, and lack of health insurance. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Facilitators such as culturally concordant providers, provider recommendations, and community-based outreach enhance screening participation. Interventions to reduce language barriers, mistrust, and limited awareness may be crucial to improving cancer screening rates among Eastern European immigrants.
Çelik A, Çinar D, Öztürk Çetin A
… +1 more, Ümit Ünal O
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41812014
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PURPOSE: To examine the variables influencing body image perception and stoma self-efficacy levels in individuals with colorectal cancer and a stoma, and to evaluate the relationship between these two factors. PARTICIPAN...PURPOSE: To examine the variables influencing body image perception and stoma self-efficacy levels in individuals with colorectal cancer and a stoma, and to evaluate the relationship between these two factors. PARTICIPANTS & SETTING: The study consisted of 121 individuals with colorectal cancer and a stoma who were treated at the outpatient chemotherapy unit at a university hospital in Türkiye between December 2023 and June 2024 and filled out data collection forms. METHODOLOGIC APPROACH: This cross-sectional, correlational study used face-to-face methods to collect demographic and clinical characteristics, as well as data on stoma-related self-efficacy and body image perception, using validated surveys. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. FINDINGS: Body image scores were lower in patients who were younger, female, and single, and who lacked stoma-related education. Those with concerns about gas, leakage, or odor, as well as those feeling upset about body changes, had significantly poorer body image scores. Self-efficacy was higher in those who had received stoma-related education but lower in women and those with stoma-related anxieties. A correlation was found between body image and self-efficacy. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Stoma-related education and psychosocial support may enhance patients' self-efficacy and body image. Nursing interventions should address physical concerns, social stigma, and emotional well-being to improve adaptation and quality of life.
Han Y, Liu Y, Liu Y
… +6 more, Zhou Z, Wang Z, Zhao W, Yu S, Cao M, Zhang W
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41812013
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PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION: Breast cancer (BC) affects women's physical and psychological well-being. Expressive writing (EW) interventions show promise for BC symptoms but have inconclusive impacts on quality of life (QOL)....PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION: Breast cancer (BC) affects women's physical and psychological well-being. Expressive writing (EW) interventions show promise for BC symptoms but have inconclusive impacts on quality of life (QOL). This review evaluated the effect of EW interventions in patients with BC on QOL, intrusive thoughts, benefit finding, post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, anxiety, and depression. LITERATURE SEARCH: Seven English and two Chinese databases were searched for articles published through August 2023. Two researchers reviewed studies, extracted data, and evaluated risk of bias. DATA EVALUATION: The review included 24 studies (22 in meta-analysis). EW significantly improved QOL, benefit finding, intrusive thoughts, anxiety, and depression but had no effect on post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. Subgroup analysis showed that longer-term follow-up, as well as certain types of EW intervention, had better effects. EW had better effects for BC survivors than patients receiving chemotherapy. SYNTHESIS: EW interventions positively affect QOL in patients with BC. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: This study provides evidence for using EW interventions in patients with BC.
Myers JS, Ramakrishnan S, Holt LS
… +1 more, Asher A
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41812012
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OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate feasibility of the MindCap mobile, digital application for objective and repeated assessment of cognitive function in cancer survivors and assess its sensitivity to cognitive improvement. SAMPL...OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate feasibility of the MindCap mobile, digital application for objective and repeated assessment of cognitive function in cancer survivors and assess its sensitivity to cognitive improvement. SAMPLE & SETTING: 57 adults with stage I-III solid tumors or lymphoma who reported cognitive issues six months to five years postchemotherapy. METHODS & VARIABLES: Participants completed three phases of MindCap testing sessions over 14 weeks. Pre-/postintervention data were collected for time and number of MindCap sessions completed for each phase, adherence to required testing frequency, participant satisfaction, self-report, and MindCap metrics for cognitive domain-specific performance (executive function, attention, memory, verbal ability, visual-spatial ability, and psychomotor function). RESULTS: Feasibility was demonstrated for recruitment and adherence to MindCap use. Self-report and MindCap metrics correlated positively. MindCap performance metrics were sensitive to improvements in multiple cognitive domains. Post facto analyses indicated a potential MindCap dose effect for cognitive function improvement. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Future research comparing MindCap metrics to standard neurocognitive testing and investigation for potential dose effect are warranted.
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41774923
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The evolution of publishing has moved from print to digital formats and now to continuous publication. For the Oncology Nursing Forum (Forum), this means that, except for this print issue to coincide with Oncology Nursin...The evolution of publishing has moved from print to digital formats and now to continuous publication. For the Oncology Nursing Forum (Forum), this means that, except for this print issue to coincide with Oncology Nursing Soc.
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41774922
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Each abstract has been indexed according to first author. Abstracts appear as they were submitted and have not undergone editing or the Oncology Nursing Forum's review process. Only abstracts that will be presented appea...Each abstract has been indexed according to first author. Abstracts appear as they were submitted and have not undergone editing or the Oncology Nursing Forum's review process. Only abstracts that will be presented appear h.
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41774921
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Each abstract has been indexed according to first author. Abstracts appear as they were submitted and have not undergone editing or the Oncology Nursing Forum's review process. Only abstracts that will be presented appea...Each abstract has been indexed according to first author. Abstracts appear as they were submitted and have not undergone editing or the Oncology Nursing Forum's review process. Only abstracts that will be presented appear h.
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41774920
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Publisher ↗
Each abstract has been indexed according to first author. Abstracts appear as they were submitted and have not undergone editing or the Oncology Nursing Forum's review process. Only abstracts that will be presented appea...Each abstract has been indexed according to first author. Abstracts appear as they were submitted and have not undergone editing or the Oncology Nursing Forum's review process. Only abstracts that will be presented appear h.
Yan K, Wang HL, Small BJ
… +3 more, Elliott AF, Marshall VK, Beckie TM
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Jan · PMID 41586741
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PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION: Little is known about the potential mechanisms (i.e., the mediating effects) in the relationship among symptoms, self-efficacy, and quality of life (QOL). This scoping review summarizes the curren...PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION: Little is known about the potential mechanisms (i.e., the mediating effects) in the relationship among symptoms, self-efficacy, and quality of life (QOL). This scoping review summarizes the current evidence on whether self-efficacy mediates the effect of symptoms on QOL and whether symptoms mediate the effect of self-efficacy on QOL among cancer survivors. LITERATURE SEARCH: The PubMed®, CINAHL®, and PsycINFO® databases were searched for studies published from January 2010 to December 2023. DATA EVALUATION: Seven studies were included that explored the relationship among symptoms, self-efficacy, and QOL. Mediation analyses for included studies were synthesized using the AGReMA (A Guideline for Reporting Mediation Analyses) Statement. SYNTHESIS: Self-efficacy mediated the effects of symptom-related constructs on QOL in three of five studies. Two studies found that fatigue mediated the relationship between self-efficacy and QOL. IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH: Evidence supports the bidirectional mediating effects of self-efficacy and fatigue on their relationship with QOL. However, the majority of the studies used cross-sectional designs, warranting future longitudinal studies.
Whisenant M, Williams LA, Dains JE
… +7 more, Brassil KJ, Fellman B, Urbauer DL, Isaac T, Shelton V, Burton BS, Hacker E
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Jan · PMID 41586740
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OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of a digital health coaching (DHC) program on global health, symptom burden, quality of life, healthcare utilization, and financial toxicity. SAMPLE & SETTING: 254 adult women under...OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of a digital health coaching (DHC) program on global health, symptom burden, quality of life, healthcare utilization, and financial toxicity. SAMPLE & SETTING: 254 adult women undergoing active treatment for breast cancer at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. METHODS & VARIABLES: Participants were randomized to a six-month usual care or DHC program, which included weekly calls from a health advisor, unlimited patient-initiated communication, and digital delivery of health-behavior content. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were collected at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months. Linear mixed models were used to assess intervention effects. RESULTS: Participants were enrolled from August 2019 to December 2022. Quality of life, symptom severity, and financial toxicity improved in both groups, whereas symptom interference worsened. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Oncology nurses should monitor PROs among women undergoing active treatment for breast cancer. Further research is needed to understand the effects of DHC on PROs.
Tan A, Samuels WE, Scaramuzzino ME
… +11 more, Lall S, Martelly R, Tennill PA, Pathak A, Scacalossi A, Yu K, Sultana S, Zaman S, George A, Abedalrhman O, Capezuti E
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Jan · PMID 41553238
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OBJECTIVES: To examine risk factors associated with fall events among hospitalized individuals with cancer. SAMPLE & SETTING: 188 individuals with cancer from the inpatient oncology unit of a large, urban, public hos...OBJECTIVES: To examine risk factors associated with fall events among hospitalized individuals with cancer. SAMPLE & SETTING: 188 individuals with cancer from the inpatient oncology unit of a large, urban, public hospital in New York satisfied requirements for inclusion. METHODS & VARIABLES: A retrospective case-control analysis of electronic health records was conducted from January to December 2022. Descriptive statistics were used to investigate factors associated with fall events and falls with injuries. RESULTS: Bivariate analyses showed that being male, having a preference for the English language, having a solid tumor diagnosis, having metastatic cancer, receiving chemotherapy, using psychotropic medications, and having any isolation precautions were associated with falls among individuals with cancer. High Morse Fall Scale scores, English-language preference, and the combination of receiving chemotherapy and any isolation precautions were found to be highly predictive of a fall event during hospitalization among individuals with cancer. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Incorporating oncology-specific patient risk factors into screening or assessment tools and individualized interventions enhances safety.
Ferreira Vaz IS, Montenegro da Silva D, Carvalho Fernandes AF
… +5 more, Moura Barbosa Castro RC, Bezerra Rodrigues A, de Mendonça Figueiredo Coelho M, Pinheiro Beserra E, Pinheiro da Costa AT
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Jan · PMID 41553237
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OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficacy of telenursing counseling in improving the sexual function of women undergoing treatment for breast cancer. SAMPLE & SETTING: 59 women undergoing outpatient treatment for breast can...OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficacy of telenursing counseling in improving the sexual function of women undergoing treatment for breast cancer. SAMPLE & SETTING: 59 women undergoing outpatient treatment for breast cancer. METHODS & VARIABLES: Three telehealth counseling sessions were conducted in the intervention group during an eight-week period. The primary outcome was assessed with the Female Sexual Function Index, Brazilian version, at baseline and at 8 weeks and 12 weeks postintervention. RESULTS: The intervention and control groups had significant differences in education, race, occupation, menstrual status, and previous treatment performed. Sexual function after telenursing counseling in the intervention and control groups showed no statistically significant differences at 8 weeks or 12 weeks. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Telephone counseling did not differ from usual care in improving sexual function in women undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Nurses should consider integrating multiple intervention components.
Kan Z, Zhao J, Zhang Q
… +6 more, Liu Y, Song L, Ma R, Cao Y, He J, Xie W
Oncol Nurs Forum
· 2026 Jan · PMID 41525456
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PURPOSE: To explore the experiences of frailty among older adult patients with hematologic neoplasms and their caregivers, from a dyadic perspective. PARTICIPANTS & SETTING: A purposive sample of 12 dyads of older ad...PURPOSE: To explore the experiences of frailty among older adult patients with hematologic neoplasms and their caregivers, from a dyadic perspective. PARTICIPANTS & SETTING: A purposive sample of 12 dyads of older adult patients with hematologic neoplasms and their caregivers were recruited between October 2023 and January 2024 at a tertiary hospital in Tianjin, China. METHODOLOGIC APPROACH: This study was conducted using a phenomenologic research method. The data were collected through one-on-one semistructured interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi's seven-step method. FINDINGS: The following four themes were identified among patients and caregivers: (a) core drivers of dyadic coping, (b) positive strategies of dyadic coping, (c) negative ways of dyadic coping, and (d) inherent challenges of dyadic coping. Eleven subthemes also emerged. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: This study identified the support needs of patients and caregivers. In the future, these results will improve nursing practices and support the coping experiences of older adult patients with hematologic neoplasms and their caregivers.