Experiences of Health Care Professionals in Navigating Challenges of Pediatric Cancer Recurrence

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Oncology
• Hematology
• Qualitative Research
• Healthcare Professional Well-being

Background:

• Cancer recurrence in pediatric hematology-oncology presents significant emotional and communication challenges for healthcare professionals (HCPs).
• Despite treatment advancements, the distress associated with pediatric cancer recurrence impacts patients, families, and HCPs.
• Nurses and physicians face unique difficulties when managing the emotional and communicative aspects of recurrent childhood cancers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experiences of nurses and physicians in pediatric hematology-oncology units when confronting childhood cancer recurrence.
• To identify the emotional responses, communication strategies, and care adjustments made by HCPs during pediatric cancer recurrence.
• To understand the challenges and needs of HCPs in providing care during pediatric cancer recurrence.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative descriptive study employing in-depth, semi-structured interviews.
• Thematic analysis, following Braun and Clarke's six-phase model, was used to analyze transcribed interview data.
• Participants included 11 physicians and 11 nurses from pediatric hematology-oncology units in Türkiye.

Main Results:

• Healthcare professionals experienced a spectrum of difficult emotions, including sadness, helplessness, guilt, fear, and hopelessness.
• Communication strategies were adapted to the child's age and developmental stage, balancing realism with hope.
• Care practices evolved towards more patient-centered approaches, incorporating flexibility and palliative care considerations.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric cancer recurrence significantly impacts HCPs, eliciting profound emotional responses and necessitating adaptive communication and care strategies.
• Effective support for children and families facing cancer recurrence requires HCPs to manage their own emotional challenges.
• There is a critical need for targeted interventions and training to enhance HCPs' emotional resilience and communication skills in pediatric oncology settings.