European Journal Of Oncology Nursing[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
The effects of digital games on pain, fear, anxiety, and physiological responses in children during port catheter needle insertion: A randomized controlled study.
Azak M, Eki̇nci̇ B, Sal Çeli̇k A … +2 more , Keri̇moglu Yildiz G, Pasli Uysalol E
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41610725 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study examined the effect of playing a digital game during port catheter needle insertion on pain, fear, anxiety, and physiological responses in children aged 6-12 years undergoing chemotherapy. METHODS: Th...
PURPOSE: This study examined the effect of playing a digital game during port catheter needle insertion on pain, fear, anxiety, and physiological responses in children aged 6-12 years undergoing chemotherapy. METHODS: This randomized controlled trial was conducted with 56 children in a pediatric hematology-oncology unit. Participants were randomly assigned to the experimental group, which played a digital game via an online platform during the procedure, or to the control group, which received standard care. Data were collected using the Demographic Form, Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale, Children's State Anxiety Scale, and Children's Fear Scale. RESULTS: Children in the experimental group reported lower pain and anxiety compared to controls, with mean post-procedure anxiety scores of 1.61 ± 0.737 versus 2.32 ± 1.634 (p = 0.049). Fear levels decreased significantly in both groups (p < 0.001). Heart rate remained more stable in the experimental group (p < 0.05), while no significant differences were observed in SpO values (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the efficacy of digital games in reducing pain, fear, and anxiety in children with port needles, as well as in stabilizing heart rate. Consequently, it is recommended that digital games be incorporated into clinical practice as an effective distraction method for pediatric patients during invasive procedures. This study has significant implications for nursing practice, demonstrating that digital games are a cost-effective, accessible, and child-friendly non-pharmacological intervention. By reducing distress and enhancing coping, digital games can be integrated into routine nursing care to improve children's experiences and foster trust in clinical settings.
Cultural acceptability and potential effectiveness of dignity therapy for patients with terminal cancer in Taiwan: A Quasi-Experimental study.
Chiu TY, Lai WS, Fan SY … +2 more , Fang SY, Liu YH
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41610724 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study assessed the cultural acceptability and clinical effectiveness of dignity therapy (DT) among terminal cancer patients in Taiwan, addressing a significant gap in evidence regarding its applicability in...
PURPOSE: This study assessed the cultural acceptability and clinical effectiveness of dignity therapy (DT) among terminal cancer patients in Taiwan, addressing a significant gap in evidence regarding its applicability in East Asian contexts. METHODS: A quasiexperimental, nonrandomized controlled design with integrated qualitative feedback analysis was employed. Twenty-four terminal cancer patients were assigned to either an intervention group (DT plus comfort care, n = 12) or a control group (comfort care only, n = 12). Dignity-related distress was measured using the Patient Dignity Inventory-Mandarin Version (PDI-MV) at baseline, postintervention, and at the two-week follow-up. Acceptability was assessed using the Dignity Therapy Patient and Family Feedback Questionnaires (DTPFQ/DTFFQ). Quantitative data were analyzed using t tests and repeated-measures ANOVA, while qualitative responses were analyzed thematically. RESULTS: Participants in the intervention group experienced a significant reduction in dignity-related distress over time (F = 10.08, P < 0.001), whereas no significant change was observed in the control group (F = 0.70, P = 0.50). High acceptability was reported by participants who received DT (M = 4.21/5) and their family members (M = 4.28/5). Qualitative analysis revealed three overarching themes: (1) emotional catharsis and relief, (2) meaning-making and restoration, and (3) mutual understanding and reconciliation. CONCLUSION: This study provides preliminary evidence supporting the feasibility, cultural relevance, and potential efficacy of DT in Taiwan. Integrating DT into culturally responsive palliative care may preserve patient dignity, reduce existential distress, and enhance meaningful family communication at the end of life in East Asian contexts.
Corrigendum to "Feasibility and acceptability of an online expressive writing intervention for rural breast cancer survivors: A randomized controlled trial" [Eur. J. Oncol. Nurs. (2025 Feb) 74 102790].
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Apr · PMID 41605777 · Publisher ↗
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Meaning-making in individuals with cancer and their carers: A qualitative study.
Martin M, Murray CV, Usher KJ … +2 more , Rock AJ, Rice K
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41605065 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Cancer impacts the wellbeing and quality of life of individuals with cancer and their carers. Meaning-making strategies, which can be secular, spiritual or religious in nature, can help to facilitate their pos...
OBJECTIVE: Cancer impacts the wellbeing and quality of life of individuals with cancer and their carers. Meaning-making strategies, which can be secular, spiritual or religious in nature, can help to facilitate their positive adjustment. The current study aimed to explore meaning-making processes in people with cancer and their carers. METHODS: The study was qualitative in design with 10 individuals with cancer and 10 carers participating in semi-structured interviews. Analysis was approached deductively using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Four over-arching themes framed the deductive analysis, with several subthemes derived for each. There were three subthemes for causal attributions, two for primary appraisals, five for meaning making processes and four for meanings made. Although patient and carer experiences mostly aligned, there were differences within some subthemes. CONCLUSION: Results suggest that Australian individuals with cancer and their carers use a variety of secular, spiritual and/or religious meaning making strategies. These may offer a helpful way to navigate and support psychological adjustment and facilitate posttraumatic growth. Given Australia's diversity, meaning-making interventions that are adapted to individual belief systems may be helpful in promoting positive adaptation for cancer patients and their carers.
Efficacy of two psychological interventions on pain, distress, and post-traumatic growth in breast cancer survivors: A 2-year follow-up of two randomized controlled trials.
Arefian M
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41592416 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study investigated the 1- and 2-year efficacy of two brief interventions, Mindfulness-integrated Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MiCBT) and an Observational Learning and Acceptance-based pain management progr...
PURPOSE: This study investigated the 1- and 2-year efficacy of two brief interventions, Mindfulness-integrated Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MiCBT) and an Observational Learning and Acceptance-based pain management program (POLA), compared to Treatment-As-Usual (TAU), on pain, psychological distress, and post-traumatic growth (PTG). METHODS: BC survivors (n = 54) who had participated in two randomized controlled trials during primary treatment were followed up to 2 years post-diagnosis. Participants were assigned to MiCBT, POLA, or TAU. Outcome measures (pain, psychological distress, depression, anxiety, stress, PTG) were assessed at baseline, 1-year, and 2-year follow-ups. RESULTS: The control group exhibited persistent morbidity, with high rates of moderate-to-severe symptoms across both follow-ups (e.g., pain: 44 % at 1-year, 33 % at 2-years; anxiety: 32 % at 1-year, 39 % at 2-years). Both interventions demonstrated significant but time-dependent benefits. While pain reduction was significant only at 1-year for both groups, MiCBT showed broader psychological efficacy, reducing depression and psychological distress at 1-year and maintaining anxiety reduction across both follow-ups. POLA significantly reduced anxiety at 1-year follow-up. Both interventions produced sustained improvements in stress and PTG across all assessments. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that providing psychological interventions during chemotherapy is associated with significant long-term benefits, with specific advantages varying by the type of intervention. In contrast, the control group exhibited persistent symptoms across both follow-up periods. These results support the integration of targeted psychological support into standard oncology care to address the long-term needs of survivors.
Experiences of people with haematological cancer and impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa: A qualitative study.
Reis S, Neves T, Gonçalves R
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41592415 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa may be a side effect of treatment for haematological cancer (HC), particularly chemotherapy and monoclonal antibodies. It can have physical and psychological...
BACKGROUND: Impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa may be a side effect of treatment for haematological cancer (HC), particularly chemotherapy and monoclonal antibodies. It can have physical and psychological consequences, interrupt or delay treatment and, in more serious situations, become life-threatening. PURPOSE: The aim was to describe the experience of people with HC and impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa after chemotherapy and monoclonal antibody treatments. METHODS: A descriptive study of an interpretative nature, with nine semi-structured interviews carried out between November 2024 and March 2025. The reflective thematic analysis method was used to identify, analyse and interpret patterns of meaning present in the data. RESULTS: The analysis of the interviews revealed two main themes and seven sub-themes describing the experiences of people with haemato-oncological disease and impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa: 1) implications (physical, on activities of daily living, socio-family, emotional and on the development of the disease) and 2) strategies (adaptive and management). CONCLUSIONS: This research contributed to a little-explored area, aiming to better tailor responses to the needs of people with haemato-oncological disease and impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa.
Symptom clusters and their association with frailty in older patients with lung cancer during chemotherapy: An analysis based on electronic nursing records.
Hu Y, Xie H, Hu Z … +4 more , Luo D, Hu J, Huang F, Dong C
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41592414 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To explore symptom clusters and their association with frailty among older lung cancer patients during chemotherapy using electronic nursing records. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed 5591 electronic...
OBJECTIVE: To explore symptom clusters and their association with frailty among older lung cancer patients during chemotherapy using electronic nursing records. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed 5591 electronic nursing records from 120 older lung cancer patients (≥60 years) undergoing chemotherapy. Natural language processing (NLP) was used to extract 39 symptoms from nursing records. Electronic frailty index was developed using 32 health-related variables. Exploratory factor analysis identified symptom clusters, and Spearman correlation analysis examined associations between symptom clusters and frailty. RESULTS: Among 120 older lung cancer patients (74.2 % male, mean age 70.02 ± 6.12 years), 36 distinct symptoms were identified during chemotherapy, with fatigue (85 %), poor appetite (74.1 %), and pain (60 %) being most prevalent. Principal component analysis revealed five symptom clusters: lung cancer-specific, physical, emotional, perceptual, and skin-related. Physical and emotional symptom clusters showed significant positive correlations with frailty status. CONCLUSIONS: Five symptom clusters were identified in older lung cancer patients during chemotherapy, with physical and emotional clusters significantly correlated with frailty. NLP-based electronic health record analysis demonstrates feasibility for symptom identification, providing foundation for future big data-driven symptom management research.
Social Determinants of Health and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Cancer Survivors: Analyses of the All of Us and NHANES Cohorts.
Zhong M, Peitz J, Adebamowo C … +1 more , Adebamowo SN
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41579622 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a critical aspect of cancer survivorship, influenced by various social determinants of health (SDoH) such as economic stability, education, and healthcare coverage. Unde...
PURPOSE: Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a critical aspect of cancer survivorship, influenced by various social determinants of health (SDoH) such as economic stability, education, and healthcare coverage. Understanding the association between these determinants and HRQoL is essential for developing interventions that improve the well-being of cancer survivors. METHODS: Cross-sectional analyses were conducted using data from 19,725 adults with cancer, including 15,754 from the All of Us (AoU) Research Program and 3971 from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). HRQoL outcomes were assessed pairwise with individual SDoH and using a cumulative SDoH risk score using binary logistic regression models. RESULTS: Higher economic stability, education, and healthcare coverage were significantly associated with better HRQoL outcomes. In the AoU cohort, those with higher family income were more likely to report very good (OR: 1.67; CI: 1.40-2.00) or excellent (OR: 1.85; CI: 1.54-2.21) quality of life. Similar trends were observed for excellent physical health (OR: 1.58; CI: 1.45-1.72) and mental health (OR: 1.45; CI: 1.28-1.64). The NHANES cohort showed consistent findings for excellent overall health (OR: 2.79; CI: 2.06-3.77), physical health (OR: 1.61; CI: 1.31-1.96), and mental health (OR: 1.60; CI: 1.29-1.98). Participants with fewer negative SDoH factors reported significantly better outcomes across all HRQoL dimensions. CONCLUSIONS: These findings underscore the association between SDoH and cancer survivors' HRQoL, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions and policies to address the adverse effects of negative SDoH factors. Reducing disparities is crucial for improving the quality of life of cancer survivors.
Distress, problems and unmet rehabilitation needs after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation for haematologic malignancies: A cross-sectional study.
Seland M, Rognli S, Skaali T … +5 more , Blomhoff R, Tjønnfjord GE, Eriksen AMA, Solvang G, Thorsen L
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41576829 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is an intensive treatment potentially resulting in distress, physical and psychosocial problems, and need for rehabilitation services. The purpose of this study wa...
PURPOSE: Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is an intensive treatment potentially resulting in distress, physical and psychosocial problems, and need for rehabilitation services. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of distress, problems, and unmet rehabilitation needs among patients with haematological malignancies treated with HSCT, and to identify demographic and clinical factors associated with being distressed. METHODS: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study among patients with a haematological malignancy was conducted 3-24 months post HSCT. Distress and problems were assessed by the National Comprehensive Network (NCCN) Distress Thermometer (DT) and Problem List (PL), and problems with physical endurance and muscle strength by 11-point scales. Unmet rehabilitation needs were assessed by a questionnaire constructed by the authors. RESULTS: Among 130 invited patients, 98 (75%) were included. Mean observation time since HSCT was 8 months, mean age at survey was 54 years and 61% were male. About half (51%) of the participants reported distress. The most common problems reported on the PL were fatigue (56%), tingling in hands/feet (49%), and worry (47%). Impaired physical endurance and muscle strength were reported by 65% and 59 %, respectively. Thirty-seven percent reported unmet rehabilitation needs. Distressed participants reported more problems included in the PL [mean 10.3 (SD 5.1) vs 4.8 (SD 2.9), p<0.001] and more unmet rehabilitation needs (52% vs 21%, p=0.003) compared to non-distressed participants. CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of distress, problems and unmet rehabilitation needs emphasize the importance of regular screening and tailored rehabilitation programs in this population.
Consensus research priorities for cancer nursing in Europe: A Delphi study.
Drury A, Dowling M, Colomer-Lahiguera S … +9 more , Efstathiou N, Semple C, Fernández-Ortega P, Brochstedt Dieperink K, Pape E, Kotronoulas G, Miguel S, Bağçivan G, European Oncology Nursing Society
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41570660 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Identifying priority areas for cancer nursing research is essential for aligning research efforts with regional needs and improving outcomes for people affected by cancer. This Delphi study aimed to develop a st...
PURPOSE: Identifying priority areas for cancer nursing research is essential for aligning research efforts with regional needs and improving outcomes for people affected by cancer. This Delphi study aimed to develop a strategic agenda of cancer nursing research priorities relevant to the European context. METHOD: A panel of experts in cancer nursing practice, research, policy, and education participated in a three-round Delphi study. A total of 115 research topics across 11 thematic areas were pre-identified through a systematic review and consultation with cancer nurses. From September 2023 to March 2024, participants ranked the importance of each topic. Final prioritisation was based on weighted average rankings and an 80 % consensus threshold in round 3. RESULTS: Eighty-one cancer nursing experts participated in at least one round, with 57 completing all three rounds. In round 3, consensus was achieved for 73 of 123 items (59.3 %). The three highest-ranked thematic areas for future research were: 1) nurse-led care and models of cancer care, 2) unmet needs in cancer care, and 3) education, training, and professional development for nurses. The top three specific research priorities were: 1) understanding factors influencing recruitment, retention, and turnover within the European oncology nursing workforce, 2) evaluating the effectiveness of nurse-led interventions for people living with cancer, and 3) understanding risk factors for cancer diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: This study presents a consensus-based, regionally grounded research agenda for cancer nursing in Europe. The findings address urgent challenges in workforce sustainability, care models, and prevention, with implications for improving patient outcomes and guiding future nursing research.
Life took a different path: Experiences of body, identity and sexuality for adolescents and young adults with a cancer experience.
Haslund-Thomsen H, Ellegaard Jensen D, Timmermann Stuhr C … +2 more , Kaptain ML, Von Sehested Jæger M
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41570659 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study aimed to explore adolescent and young adults with a cancer experience (AYA-CCEs') body, identity and sexuality experiences and their need for hospital-based support during the cancer treatment traject...
PURPOSE: This study aimed to explore adolescent and young adults with a cancer experience (AYA-CCEs') body, identity and sexuality experiences and their need for hospital-based support during the cancer treatment trajectory, including subsequent outpatient follow-up. METHOD: A qualitative study design with a hermeneutic approach. Twenty semi-structured individual interviews and one semi-structured focus group interview applying autobiography were conducted. The participants were adolescents and young adults (13-29) with completed cancer treatment or in actual treatment. RESULTS: Reflective thematic analysis generated four main themes: (i) bodily changes as reminders of cancer, (ii) falling behind and developing differently from peers, (iii) the impact of cancer treatment on fertility and (iv) the experience of sexuality. Overall, there was a pervasive experience of feeling different from peers. Being restricted or excluded from engaging in activities normally associated with youth affected the development of identity and exploration of their sexuality. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides insights into AYA-CCE' body, identity and sexuality experiences during the cancer trajectory and highlights their need for communication with healthcare professionals. AYA-CCEs experience physical discomfort, affecting their ability to participate in normal youth life and to express or live out their sexual needs. The expected course of youth life has taken a different path due to bodily and psychological changes, making it challenging to engage socially with peers and contributing to a sense of being left behind. Our findings suggest a need for AYA-CCEs to access specialized knowledge in a safe and supportive setting facilitated by healthcare professionals.
A mixed methods study of psychological distress in family caregivers of ovarian cancer patients based on the ABC-X model.
Xu X, Yu S, Jing M … +2 more , Liu Y, Zhang W
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41558374 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Exploring the psychological distress of family caregivers of ovarian cancer patients in conjunction with the ABC-X model. METHODS: (i) Cross-sectional study. Between November 2022 and May 2023, 270 family caregi...
PURPOSE: Exploring the psychological distress of family caregivers of ovarian cancer patients in conjunction with the ABC-X model. METHODS: (i) Cross-sectional study. Between November 2022 and May 2023, 270 family caregivers were collected using convenience-sampled convenience sampling. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0. (ii) Descriptive qualitative study. Interview guides were designed based on the ABC-X model and quantitative results. From June to August 2023, 14 participants from the quantitative study were selected for semi-structured interviews using a maximum difference purposive sampling strategy. The interview data were compiled and analyzed using the content analysis method. RESULTS: (i) Among 258 FCGs, 74.4 % experienced psychological distress.Stratified regression results indicated significant predictive roles of lack of caregiving experience, self-efficacy, family resilience, and caregiving burden on caregiver psychological distress, with an R of 75.8 %. (ii) In-depth interviews revealed that the experience of psychological distress varied across individuals and was influenced by factors such as surrounding support, illness status, caregiving burden, and self-coping ability, and can also be denoted as "ABCDE": "Assistance," "Burden," "Condition," "Determination," and "Emotion," each comprising three corresponding sub-themes. CONCLUSIONS: The psychological distress level among family caregivers is high, with approximately 3/4 of family caregivers experiencing distress. Future research could focus on reducing caregiving burden and targeting interventions to enhance family resilience and self-efficacy.
Stakeholder views on integrating prehabilitation in neoadjuvant therapy for breast cancer.
Grant SJ, Htaa MT, Gonzalez M … +4 more , Kerin-Ayres K, Kay S, Lacey J, Graham S
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41558373 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NAST) for breast cancer can cause fatigue, neuropathy, and sleep disturbance, affecting treatment adherence and recovery. Early supportive care-including exercise, psychological...
BACKGROUND: Neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NAST) for breast cancer can cause fatigue, neuropathy, and sleep disturbance, affecting treatment adherence and recovery. Early supportive care-including exercise, psychological support, and integrative therapies-may reduce side effects and improve outcomes. However, it remains unclear how best to deliver such care to optimise patient participation and effectiveness. This study explored the perspectives of women with breast cancer and healthcare professionals (HCPs) on the design and delivery of a multimodal supportive care program during NAST. METHODS: This descriptive qualitative study with conventional content analysis involved 24 participants: 12 women receiving neoadjuvant therapy, one receiving adjuvant therapy, and 11 HCPs across disciplines. Data were analysed thematically to identify key themes related to stakeholder knowledge, experiences, and perceived barriers and facilitators. RESULTS: Supportive care was viewed by both patients and healthcare professionals as critical to managing treatment-related side effects and maintaining quality of life. Stakeholders emphasised the need for early introduction, tailored delivery within a structured "program" format, and multidisciplinary coordination to support adherence and sustainability. Patients emphasised simplicity and the ability to 'just sign up' early in their treatment journey, ideally at diagnosis, with flexibility to adjust based on readiness. CONCLUSIONS: Stakeholders viewed early, multimodal supportive care as a valuable strategy to manage treatment-related side effects and enhance recovery. Success depends on programs being flexible but structured ('just sign up'), person-centered, and integrated into the oncology care pathway. Given emerging evidence that exercise during treatment may influence tumour biology and response, these insights can inform the design of interventions that can support both clinical and quality-of-life outcomes of cancer treatment.
The prognostic nutritional index and a multifactorial nomogram for predicting early stoma-related complications after prophylactic ileostomy: A retrospective cohort study.
Lin X, Zhang Y, Wang Y … +5 more , Yan W, Bian J, Pei X, Zhang Y, Sun X
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41558372 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To evaluate the predictive value of the Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) and multiple factors for early stoma-related complications in patients undergoing prophylactic ileostomy. METHODS: A retrospective analy...
PURPOSE: To evaluate the predictive value of the Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) and multiple factors for early stoma-related complications in patients undergoing prophylactic ileostomy. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted in a cohort of 229 patients who underwent prophylactic ileostomy. The optimal cut-off value of the PNI was determined using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Based on this threshold, patients were stratified into a low nutritional risk group (PNI >45.55, n = 122) and a high nutritional risk group (PNI ≤45.55, n = 107). Univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with stoma-related complications. A predictive nomogram was subsequently developed and validated. An ROC curve was constructed for the nomogram model, and its predictive performance was compared with that of the PNI-alone model. RESULTS: The incidence of early stoma-related complications following prophylactic ileostomy was 47.2 %. Multivariate analysis identified neoadjuvant therapy, absence of preoperative stoma site marking, stoma height < 2cm, and a low PNI as independent risk factors. The nomogram demonstrated excellent predictive performance, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.808 (95 % CI: 0.751-0.865), compared to the PNI-alone model (AUC = 0.748; P = 0.007). Internal validation confirmed good calibration, with the calibration curve showing close agreement with the ideal reference. CONCLUSION: The developed nomogram outperforms the PNI-alone model in predicting early stoma-related complications, demonstrating strong discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility. It enables rapid perioperative risk quantification, aids in the early identification of high-risk patients, and facilitates targeted interventions to improve outcomes.
Relationships among postoperative changes in swallowing function, nutritional status, and overall survival in patients with oral cancer.
Peng YX, Tsai YC, Chang WP
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41558371 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Dysphagia and malnutrition are frequent postoperative complications in oral cancer patients, increasing therapy-related risks and impacting survival. This study examined changes in swallowing function and nutrit...
PURPOSE: Dysphagia and malnutrition are frequent postoperative complications in oral cancer patients, increasing therapy-related risks and impacting survival. This study examined changes in swallowing function and nutritional status after surgery and their effects on overall survival. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study at a medical center in Taiwan reviewed records of newly-diagnosed oral cancer patients who underwent surgery between January 2020 and December 2023. Clinical indicators including BMI, albumin, Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS), and Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) scores were collected at three time points: preoperatively (T1) and at 3 (T2) and 6 months (T3) postoperatively. Overall survival was calculated from the date of surgery (T0) to the fixed endpoint of August 31, 2024. Group-based trajectory modeling was used to identify temporal patterns, and Cox regression analysis was performed to examine survival-related factors. RESULTS: A total of 120 patients were examined. During the study period, 42 patients died. The mean follow-up duration was 25.36 (SD = 13.42) months. The FOIS score changes were negatively associated with PG-SGA scores trajectories (χ = 7.37, p = .007) and positively associated with albumin trajectories (χ2 = 8.92, p = .003) and BMI trajectories (χ = 7.83, p = .020). Cox regression analysis showed that patients with Stage-IV cancer (HR = 47.85, 95 % CI: 2.02-1134.80), higher PG-SGA scores trajectories (HR = 2.77, 95 % CI: 1.19-6.46), and lower albumin levels trajectories (HR = 2.63, 95 % CI: 1.13-6.16) faced increased mortality risk. CONCLUSIONS: Oral cancer patients showed poorer swallowing after surgery. Swallowing changes were linked to nutritional status, and postoperative nutrition was associated with survival, underscoring the need for monitoring and support.
Sexual dysfunction and associated factors in adult survivors of childhood cancer: A cross-sectional study in China.
Yang F, Huang X, Yorke J … +18 more , Lam KKW, Guo L, Liu Q, Belay GM, Mao T, Sun Q, Ho JMC, Chi Fai NG, Cheng FWT, Zhang Y, Zuo W, Liu X, Cai R, Wang W, Xu X, Shi H, Ho KY, Wong FK
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41548416 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Sexual functioning is a crucial component of general health. Less is known about the late effects of childhood cancer on adult survivors' sexual functioning. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and asso...
PURPOSE: Sexual functioning is a crucial component of general health. Less is known about the late effects of childhood cancer on adult survivors' sexual functioning. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of sexual dysfunction among adult survivors of childhood cancer. METHODS: A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted. Survivors diagnosed with any cancer type before the age of 18, and aged more than 18 years old, were recruited by purposive sampling. From October to December 2023, potential survivors were identified from hospital information systems in four tertiary hospitals in mainland China. Invitations were sent to potential survivors between January to July 2024. Data were collected using a set of questionnaires based on a framework of associated factors of sexual functioning among adult survivors of childhood cancer. Descriptive and univariate analyses and multiple logistic regressions were conducted. RESULTS: 290 out of 720 approached survivors were included and completed the questionnaire. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in female survivors was 66.18 % and 59.09 % in male survivors. The three most commonly reported sexual problems for female survivors were related to sexual desire, sexual arousal and sexual satisfaction; and those for male survivors were related to intercourse satisfaction, orgasmic function and overall satisfaction. The associated factors of sexual dysfunction among Chinese female survivors include comorbidities, menses, being overweight, depression, and sexual shame, while age at diagnosis, self-esteem, anxiety and depression, and sexual shame were found in male survivors. CONCLUSIONS: The high prevalence of sexual dysfunction among Chinese adult survivors of childhood cancer underscores an urgent need for routine assessment and appropriate interventions. Our findings highlight modifiable psychological factors, e.g., depression, anxiety and sexual shame as important constructs that can be targeted by interventions, with an ultimate goal to improve sexual function among this population.
Exploring young women's experiences throughout the journey of hormone-sensitive breast cancer: A qualitative secondary analysis.
Zackrisson M, Blomqvist E, Tofighi R … +4 more , Haag M, Ungerstedt C, Wolf A, Ahlberg K
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41548415 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To explore young women's experiences during the pre-, peri-, and post-diagnostic phases of hormone-sensitive breast cancer and survivorship. METHOD: A descriptive qualitative secondary analysis was conducted wit...
PURPOSE: To explore young women's experiences during the pre-, peri-, and post-diagnostic phases of hormone-sensitive breast cancer and survivorship. METHOD: A descriptive qualitative secondary analysis was conducted with ten women aged 28-39, diagnosed within five years and recruited via two national Swedish patient organizations. Semi-structured interviews were conducted virtually or by phone, recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed inductively using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: The analysis revealed one overarching theme, Navigating Uncertainty in the Journey Through Breast Cancer, capturing young women's experiences across diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Five descriptive categories illustrated key aspects of this journey: Experiences of Neglect While Seeking Care for Breast Cancer Symptoms; The Lack of Age-Specific Support in Healthcare; Seeking Knowledge, Regaining Control, and Developing Coping Strategies; Balancing Parenthood and Cancer Treatment; and Existential Anxiety and the Importance of Addressing Mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Young women with hormone-sensitive breast cancer face unique challenges related to age bias, limited reproductive and psychosocial support, and existential distress. Tailored, age-sensitive, person-centered care is essential to address these needs and improve survivorship experiences.
Lessons learned through childhood cancer: An AI- enhanced PhotoArt-based qualitative study of parental growth and meaning-making.
Kılıçarslan E, Akgün Çıtak E, Dağlıyar S … +1 more , İncesoy Özdemi̇r S
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41547128 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This qualitative phenomenological study explores how parents of children diagnosed with cancer construct meaning from their caregiving experiences, the lessons they derive, and how these experiences contribute t...
PURPOSE: This qualitative phenomenological study explores how parents of children diagnosed with cancer construct meaning from their caregiving experiences, the lessons they derive, and how these experiences contribute to their growth. Using a descriptive phenomenological design, the study employed AI-generated PhotoArt to elicit and enrich parents' narratives, facilitating metaphorical expression and deepening narrative insight. By shifting the focus from distress to meaning, the study highlights caregiving as a site of personal growth, value reorientation, and life learning." METHOD: Sixteen parents from a pediatric oncology unit participated in two in-depth individual interviews. In the first, they described an image that symbolized their learning; the second focused on emotional and cognitive transformation. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's six-phase thematic analysis. Personalized AI-generated visuals were created to represent each parent's core theme. RESULTS: Three main themes emerged: (1) Initial experiences of Crisis, marked by emotional collapse, family disruption, and spiritual coping; (2) Lessons Acquired Through the Illness Journey, including resilience, life reprioritization, and empathy through connection; and (3) Constrained Learning Over Time, involving emotional suppression, avoidance, social withdrawal, and mistrust. Visual metaphors like a "broken-winged angel" enriched the emotional depth of verbal narratives. CONCLUSION: The integration of visual and narrative techniques shows promise in supporting caregiver insight and resilience. Creative, meaning-centered approaches may enhance psycho-oncological support by validating both suffering and growth in the caregiving experience.
Seeing the self again: A phenomenological photo elicitation study of Italian laryngectomy survivors.
Bressan V, Losi E, Catania G … +1 more , Ghirotto L
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41547127 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Total laryngectomy profoundly alters persons' lives physiologically and psychosocially, with major consequences for communication, identity, and social participation. While qualitative studies have examined aspe...
PURPOSE: Total laryngectomy profoundly alters persons' lives physiologically and psychosocially, with major consequences for communication, identity, and social participation. While qualitative studies have examined aspects of survivorship, few have employed visual methodologies to capture the embodied and existential experiences of individuals who have had total laryngectomy, particularly within the Italian context. This study explored how individuals who underwent total laryngectomy perceive themselves as cancer survivors and visually represent their illness experiences and self-redefinition after surgery. METHODS: As part of a broader qualitative project informed by phenomenology, we employed photo elicitation. Nineteen participants (15 men, four women; mean age 66.3 years) were purposively recruited from two Otorhinolaryngology departments in Northern Italy. Participants selected or produced photographs illustrating aspects of post-laryngectomy life and discussed them in individual, in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Visual and narrative data were analyzed using a four-step phenomenological approach: preview, review, cross-photograph comparison, and theorizing. RESULTS: Two interrelated themes emerged: (1) The challenges of illness and a rebirth, capturing the transformation of self and the symbolic tension between loss and renewal; and (2) Rooting hope and the thrust in a new future, highlighting the roles of family support, self-esteem, and meaningful environments in sustaining resilience. Photographs often revealed complex meanings and aspirations not fully conveyed through verbal narratives. CONCLUSIONS: Photo elicitation allowed participants to express survivorship experiences beyond verbal communication, providing unique insights into identity reconstruction, resistance to stigma, and envisioning a future after life-altering surgery. Findings suggest visual methods can enhance psychosocial care and promote person-centered communication in oncology settings.
The role of emotional intelligence in the relationship between burnout and perceived quality of care among oncology nurses.
Sarı T, Çalışkan BB, Pars H … +1 more , Güner P
Eur J Oncol Nurs · 2026 Feb · PMID 41539118 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study aimed to examine the relationships between burnout, emotional intelligence, and perceived caring behaviours among oncology nurses and to assess the predictive and mediating roles of these variables in...
PURPOSE: This study aimed to examine the relationships between burnout, emotional intelligence, and perceived caring behaviours among oncology nurses and to assess the predictive and mediating roles of these variables in explaining caring behaviours. METHODS: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with 202 oncology nurses in Türkiye. Data were collected using validated instruments measuring burnout, emotional intelligence, and caring behaviors. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analyses, multiple linear regression, and structural equation modeling. RESULTS: Emotional intelligence was positively associated with caring behaviours (r = .359, p < .001) and negatively associated with burnout subdimensions. Caring behaviours were inversely related to emotional exhaustion (r = -.258, p < .001), depersonalisation (r = -.397, p < .001), and reduced personal accomplishment (r = -.214, p = .002). In the regression model (R = .214, p < .001), emotional intelligence significantly predicted caring behaviours positively (β = .218, p = .002), while depersonalisation was a significant negative predictor (β = -.288, p < .001). However, emotional intelligence did not mediate the relationship between burnout and caring behaviours (Sobel test p = .332). CONCLUSION: While emotional intelligence was positively associated with caring behaviours and buffered the impact of burnout-particularly depersonalisation-it did not mediate the relationship between burnout and caring. These findings support the value of enhancing emotional intelligence to improve care quality and nurse well-being, though contextual factors may influence its mediating role.
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