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Nursing Workload in Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy Day Units: A Scoping Review and Gap Analysis
Zhuming Bao1, Jenny Harris1, Nianqi Cui2
1School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Surrey, UK.
Nursing & Health Sciences
|April 19, 2026
Summary
Nursing workload in Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy (SACT) day units is complex, influenced by treatment intricacies beyond patient numbers. Current tools need refinement to capture the full scope of SACT nursing care, including non-patient-related tasks.
Area of Science:
- Oncology Nursing
- Healthcare Management
- Evidence Synthesis
Background:
- Nursing workload in Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy (SACT) day units is a critical factor in patient care quality and staff well-being.
- Existing research often focuses on patient numbers, potentially underestimating the complexity of SACT treatments.
- A comprehensive understanding of SACT nursing workload is needed to inform staffing and resource allocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a scoping review to identify, summarize, and compare evidence on nursing workload in SACT day units.
- To analyze the different methodologies used to assess nursing workload in this specialized setting.
- To identify gaps in the existing literature regarding SACT nursing workload.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive search of multiple electronic databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, EMBASE, ASSIA, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Global Index Medicus) and gray literature sources was performed.
- Studies published from January 2000 to 2025 were included.
- Twenty studies were selected for the review, categorized by patient dependency workload and nursing time workload.
Main Results:
- The review included 20 studies, with 16 being single-center studies.
- Studies primarily focused on patient dependency (acuity tools, regimen-based, patient-based assessment) and nursing time.
- A significant gap was identified concerning non-patient-related care, and the complexity of SACT treatments was found to significantly influence workload beyond patient volume.
Conclusions:
- Nursing workload in SACT day units is distinct due to the complexity and specialized nature of care required.
- Current workload measurement tools may not adequately capture the full spectrum of SACT nursing demands.
- There is a critical need for the development and implementation of refined workload measurement tools specific to SACT day units.
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