A tailored internet-delivered mindfulness-based interventions for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after TACE: A qualitative Study

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to explore the true experiences of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients after TACE who participated the tailored internet-delivered mindfulness-based interventions (iMBIs). Methods From November 2020 to December 2022, 11 HCC patients after TACE who participated the tailored iMBIs were recruited from a tertiary hospital in Jilin Province by purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were performed to collect data, and qualitative content analysis was conducted to analyze the data. Results We identified five main categories from interviews, including mindfulness mindset, improvement of physical discomfort, resistance to mindfulness practice, support and encouragement, and accessibility and convenience. Each category can be divided into several general categories. Conclusions Participants reported subjective psychological and physical benefits. However, participants also had negative experiences in the process of mindfulness practice. While iMBIs gives participants a sense of convenience and accessibility, there are also issues with device usage limitations.