Expectations for gynaecological cancer nursing guidance development: A qualitative exploration: Part 1 – Creating foundational support

Abstract

Purpose

Nurses are acknowledged as essential in the delivery of best practice gynaecological cancer care however previous studies have identified challenges in these nursing roles. Recommendations include the development of nursing guidance focused on supporting people with a gynaecological cancer. This study aimed to explore perceptions and expectations for the development of a gynaecological cancer nursing guidance resource in Australia and investigate preferred design and content inclusion. This paper presents the findings on expectations for the resource purpose.

Methods

Utilising an exploratory qualitative descriptive design, 20 nurses and seven people with lived experience of gynaecological cancer participated in focus groups or interviews following a semi-structured interview guide. Transcripts underwent inductive content analysis.

Results

All 27 participants identified as female, lived in one of 5 Australian states, included representation from regional locations (n=9, 33%), and mostly identified as Australian or mixed Australian ethnicity (n=25, 93%). The major theme, “Foundational support resource for nurses”, described how participants require a resource to support the delivery of gynaecological cancer nursing care. Participants articulated their goals for the resource through four subthemes: reducing variation in care; acknowledging diversity in nursing roles; addressing barriers; supporting development.

Conclusion

The development of a guidance resource for gynaecological cancer nursing is supported by Australian gynaecological cancer nurses and people with cancer lived experience. It is expected its implementation will assist to improve cancer outcomes, equitable access to quality care and support the development and sustainability of the gynaecological cancer nursing workforce.