Dignity in Care of Older Patients with Cancer in Korea: A Hybrid Model Concept Analysis

Background/Objectives: This study explores the concept of dignity in care for older patients with cancer in Korea using the hybrid model. Methods: A three-phase hybrid model approach was employed for concept analysis. In the theoretical phase, a literature review was conducted to determine the attributes and definition of dignity in care. In the fieldwork phase, the practicability of the defined concept was assessed through practical observations. In the final analysis phase, findings from the theoretical and fieldwork phases were compared and synthesized to validate the attributes and definition of the concept. Results: Four dimensions of dignity in care were found identified: intrinsic, relational, social, and illness-related. Professional dimension was added based on nurses' perspective. Attributes of dignity in care for older cancer patients include eight key elements: personal identity, a deepened sense of value and meaning of life, respect, relationships (with medical staff, family, and fellow patients), support for society's care policies, systemic support from healthcare systems, free will and choice, and proactive coping strategies. For nurses, dignity in care involves seven attributes: understanding and respecting human values, ethical and moral attitudes, interaction-based communication through the cultivation of rapport, systemic support from healthcare systems, protection of dignity, activities promoting dignity, and professional competency. Conclusions: This study provides concept definitions and attributes for dignity in care, equipping clinical nurses with assessment tools to better understand and enhance the dignity of older cancer patients.