Comparative Analysis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Prevalence and Predictors Among Cancer Patients and Survivors...

This study aimed to compare the prevalence and predictors of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among cancer patients and intensive care unit (ICU) survivors in Jordan.

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in three major hospitals, including 200 cancer patients and 200 ICU survivors. PTSD symptoms were measured using the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5). Data on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were collected. Nurses supported recruitment, enrollment, and coordination of data collection across three hospitals.

The prevalence of PTSD was 49.5% among cancer patients and 85.5% among ICU survivors (χ² = 59.08, P < .001), with ICU survivors being six times more likely to meet the PTSD criteria (odds ratio [OR] = 6.02, 95% confidence interval = 3.72-9.74). For patients with cancer, advanced disease stage (OR = 3.98), longer hospitalization (OR = 1.07 per day), and receipt of palliative care (OR = 5.15) or radiotherapy (OR = 4.49) were significant predictors. For ICU survivors, higher education level was the only independent predictor (OR = 4.00).

PTSD was highly prevalent among both cancer patients and ICU survivors in Jordan, with predictors differing between groups. These findings highlight the need for tailored psychosocial interventions within oncology and ICU aftercare and underscore how gaps in psychosocial and mental health services contribute to inequities in patient outcomes in low- and middle-income country settings.

The findings emphasize the need for routine PTSD screening and psychosocial support in oncology and ICU follow-up care in Jordan. Nurses are key to early detection and intervention for psychological distress. Strengthening trauma-informed nursing practice can ensure holistic patient recovery.