Treatment-Related Decision Fatigue in Patients With Recurrent Papillary Thyroid Cancer: A Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Medical Psychology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Recurrent papillary thyroid cancer presents complex treatment decisions.
• Treatment-related decision fatigue is a growing concern in chronic disease management.
• Understanding patient experiences is crucial for effective care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experience of treatment-related decision fatigue.
• To identify manifestations and consequences of decision fatigue in patients with recurrent papillary thyroid cancer.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured interviews conducted with 21 patients diagnosed with recurrent papillary thyroid cancer.
• Data collected from January to April 2024 across three tertiary hospitals in Jiangsu Province.
• Inductive content analysis used to identify key themes and sub-themes.

Main Results:

• Two main themes emerged: manifestations of decision fatigue and consequences of decision fatigue.
• Manifestations included impulsive decision-making, hesitation, heightened negative emotions, and decision-making as a burden.
• Consequences encompassed decision regret and delayed treatment decisions.

Conclusions:

• Decision fatigue significantly impacts patients with recurrent papillary thyroid cancer.
• Identified manifestations and consequences can guide healthcare providers.
• Personalized interventions are needed to support patients in making appropriate treatment decisions and improve outcomes.