Exploring psychosocial needs of patients with cancers through the lens of the physicians and nurses: a qualitative study

Abstract

Aims. To explore the experience of nurses and physicians regarding psychosocial needs of patients with cancer and to describe their perception according to professional category and clinical setting. Design. A qualitative descriptive study. Method. 14 nurses and 12 physicians were selected from three hospital clinical units and four primary care centers in northern Spain. Data were collected using semistructured interviews. Content analysis was performed using open coding. Reporting of findings followed the COREQ checklist. Results. Four themes were identified: the needs of patients with cancer, psychosocial care provided by health professionals, difficulties addressing psychosocial needs, and available resources. According to nurses and physicians, being diagnosed with cancer involves a radical life-changing process, with a profound impact at the psychosocial level. Within the field of psychosocial care, the role perceived by each profession was different. Thus, nurses highlighted the need for these patients to receive emotional support and care, although limited importance is given to psychosocial needs. The role of physicians was more focused on referring these patients to other health professionals. The lack of training or time was one of the main difficulties perceived by the professionals. The family is a fundamental resource and, overall, patients are provided with limited information about other psychosocial resources. At the hospital, the emphasis is placed on physical needs and health professionals experience greater burnout and fear of compassion fatigue. Primary care teams could, therefore, have a primary role in addressing psychosocial needs due to their understanding of each person's context and personal circumstances. Conclusions. It is essential for nurses and physicians to consider the psychosocial needs of patients with cancer. However, these needs are not always adequately addressed. Further resources are required to reduce the workload, increase the training of health professionals, and introduce organizational changes to consider psychosocial needs during routine care.