Advancement of Nursing Education in Psychosocial Oncology Care: Perspectives and Experiences of Nurses

The main objective of this study was to fill the gap between the knowledge nurses have about psychosocial care and what they do about cancer patients’ needs. It also aimed to devise ways to improve nursing education for nurses who could provide enhanced psychosocial support in such areas.

This qualitative study relied on 18 in-depth interviews with nurses, with a focus on the difference between their understanding of psychosocial care and its application in helping cancer patients. This involved analyzing the transcribed interviews using thematic analysis. Data were collected from February to March 2024.

The verbal accounts of 18 participants were analyzed. These include theme 1 “holistic approach to cancer care” with the subtheme “navigating resource constraints:” theme 2 “nurses well-being and emotional input” with the subtheme “positive impact of psychosocial care:” theme 3 “Care for patients’ well-being” with subtheme “resourcefulness and resilience in psychosocial care:” theme 4 “adapting care and building connections:” theme 5 “ideal and reality in psychosocial care” with subtheme “challenges in delivering comprehensive cancer care:” and theme 6 “empowering nurses for effective psychosocial care” with subtheme “building a strong foundation for psychosocial care.”

From the nurses’ perspective, this study indicates a need for more inclusive cancer treatment. Therefore, in addition to physical interventions, emotions and social welfare must also be addressed. Although emotionally invested, health workers may offer assistance along psychosocial lines, thus aiding both patients and caretakers. Although individualized care with personal connections is crucial for effective services, this approach can make it difficult to ensure that all clients receive adequate psychological assistance. Hence, there has been a call to enhance the training to produce nurses who offer high-quality services. This study emphasizes a more holistic approach toward the emotional needs of patients while supporting those responsible for them in their sickness journey.