Experiences of nurse cancer survivors returning to work: a qualitative systematic review and meta-synthesis

To synthesise qualitative evidence on registered nurses' experiences of returning to work after completion of primary cancer treatment and entry into the survivorship or rehabilitation phase.

Ten databases were searched from inception to 8 August 2025, with an updated search conducted on 22 February 2026. The review followed Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for qualitative evidence synthesis and was reported in accordance with ENTREQ guidelines. Methodological quality was appraised using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research. Data were synthesised thematically, and confidence in synthesised findings was assessed using the JBI ConQual approach.

Eight qualitative studies involving 96 nurse cancer survivors were included. Fifty-eight findings were synthesised into four overarching themes: (1) Emotional and Physical Journey, (2) Roles and Identities, (3) Professional Growth and Advocacy, and (4) Support and Work-Life Motivation. ConQual assessment indicated moderate confidence for three themes and low confidence for the Emotional and Physical Journey theme, reflecting limitations in methodological transparency and variability in evidentiary support.

Returning to work after cancer represents a complex and ongoing transition for nurses, involving physical adjustment, emotional regulation, identity reconstruction, and professional adaptation. Reintegration appears shaped by individual coping processes and organisational contexts.

Findings suggest that flexible work arrangements, psychological support, and context-sensitive workplace practices may facilitate more sustainable return-to-work experiences among nurse cancer survivors.