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Existential Distress in Cancer Patients: A Concept Analysis
Weiling Chen1, Ying Chen, Huimin Xiao
1Author Affiliations: School of Nursing, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China.
Cancer Nursing
|February 17, 2022
Summary
Existential distress in cancer patients is defined by lack of meaning, loss of autonomy, dignity, hope, and death anxiety. Understanding these attributes improves patient care and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychology
- Nursing
Background:
- Existential distress is a commonly used but vague concept in oncology.
- Lack of a clear conceptual framework hinders research on existential distress in cancer patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify and analyze the concept of existential distress specifically within the cancer patient population.
- Establish a recognized conceptual framework for existential distress in cancer care.
Main Methods:
- Employed the Walker and Avant concept analysis approach.
- Systematic analysis of the concept of existential distress.
Main Results:
- Identified five core attributes of existential distress in cancer patients: lack of meaning, loss of autonomy, loss of dignity, hopelessness, and death anxiety.
- Existential distress significantly impacts quality of life, emotional state, and can lead to demoralization or suicidal ideation.
- Uncontrolled physical pain, psychological morbidity, and feeling like a burden are key antecedents.
Conclusions:
- The concept analysis provides a crucial theoretical framework for healthcare providers.
- Enhanced understanding of existential distress can improve patient well-being and quality of life.
- Identified attributes can inform the development of screening tools for early intervention.
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