Supportive care needs of women with gynaecological cancer: A systematic review and synthesis of qualitative studies

Abstract

AbstractAimsTo synthesize existing qualitative research evidence on the supportive care needs of women with gynaecological cancer.DesignQualitative systematic review.Data sourcesA comprehensive literature search was performed using nine databases (PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Embase, CBM, CNKI, VIP and WanFang) without restrictions regarding publication date; qualitative studies published in English or Chinese were included. Initial search in December 2021 and updated in October 2022.Review methodsThis study was conducted according to the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) guidelines. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool for qualitative research was used to assess the quality of all included papers. Finally, we adopted a thematic synthesis method, synthesized the main findings, and constructed themes.ResultsEleven studies published between 2010 and 2021 were included in the review. Based on the thematic synthesis method, 10 descriptive themes were generated and five analytical themes were derived: psychological support, information support, social support, disease‐specific symptom management and form of care. Women with gynaecological cancer expressed a desire for psychological support from empathetic healthcare professionals; information support included access to adequate and appropriate information, as well as communication and involvement; social support highlighted women's desire for peer support, family‐related support and financial support; disease‐specific symptom management described women's desire for support in coping with reproduction/sexual issues and form of care highlighted the need for continuity of care and holistic care.ConclusionThe supportive care needs of women with gynaecological cancer are multidimensional and complex. The future care practice should take women's needs as a starting point and provide ongoing holistic and individualized support. Healthcare providers' understanding and support of these needs are critical to improving women's clinical outcomes and quality of care.ImpactThe present findings can help further develop supportive care programmes and make nursing interventions more targeted and effective.Patient or Public ContributionNo patient or public contribution.