Individual Rumination in Adult Cancer Care: A Concept Analysis

Abstract

Objective

To conceptualize rumination in adult cancer care.

Methods

Walker and Avant's concept analysis method was used to examine rumination in adults with cancer. A systematic search was conducted across psychology, nursing, medicine, and public health disciplines in PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Scopus databases from their inception to April 2024. Additional records were identified by manually searching reference lists of relevant studies.

Results

Analysis of 50 articles identified rumination's three defining attributes (intrusions, brooding, instrumentality), antecedents (cancer-related adversity, pre-existing susceptibilities), and consequences (psychophysiological functioning impairments, long-term adaptation). Key features included trait-state duality, internal variability, external cyclicality, and high emotional correlation.

Conclusions

This concept analysis establishes a preliminary conceptual model of rumination in adult cancer care, integrating its attributes, antecedents, and consequences. The model offers insights into rumination mechanisms, highlighting its complexity and variability, and may inform the development of targeted interventions and theoretical development for cancer population. Further research is needed to validate the model and explore its clinical applications.

Implications for Nursing Practice

Understanding rumination in adult cancer care helps nurses identify and support at-risk patients. By recognizing key signs, nurses can implement targeted interventions to improve patients' emotional and psychological well-being, ultimately enhancing their long-term adaptation and quality of life.