Experiences of Patients, Family Members and Nurses in Outpatient Cancer Care: A Multi-Method Qualitative Study

Cancer significantly impacts patients and their families, disrupting their emotional, relational, and organisational dynamics. Outpatient oncology nurses play a pivotal role in addressing the complex and evolving needs of patients with cancer and their families. Including the perspectives of nurses, family members, and patients within this care setting may inform the development of appropriate care services responsive to their real needs. This study aimed to gain a comprehensive and integrated understanding of how nurses, patients, and family members experience cancer and caring in outpatient oncology consultations.

A multi-method qualitative study was conducted as part of a larger Experience-Based Co-Design project. Data were collected between January and May 2024 through non-participant observations, field notes, and semi-structured interviews with patients, family members, and nurses. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis, integrating findings across participant groups and data collection methods.

Through the integrated data analysis of observations, field notes, and individual stakeholders' interviews, three key themes emerged: (i) Cancer: a family affair; (ii) the needs of patients with cancer and their families; and (iii) the importance of establishing a trust-based nurse-family relationship.

This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the experiences of patients, families, and nurses in outpatient oncology care, underscoring the critical role of a family-oriented approach in care to provide support to families facing the multifaceted challenges posed by the illness. Insights from this research will inform the next phase of an Experience-Based Co-Design study to design a nurse-led family support intervention for patients with cancer and their family members.