The Experience of Caring for Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Patients From the Perspective of Haematology Nurses: A Qualitative Descriptive Study.

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to explore the experiences of haematology nurses while caring for patients undergoing haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Design: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted.

Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 18 haematology nurses in six hospitals between May 2022 and December 2023. The data were analysed using traditional content analysis. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies (COREQ) checklist guided this report. The data were saturated in the 16th interview, and two more were conducted to confirm data saturation.

Results: Through analysis, four themes and eleven sub-themes regarding the caring experiences of haematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients have emerged: challenges of isolated spaces, including the 'claustrophobic' feeling in isolated environments, segregation of communication, and pressure to independently assess and manage patient care; moral distress from treatment decisions, encompassing struggles in weighing haematopoietic stem cell transplantation pros and cons during patient communication, providing 'insincere' encouragement to patients, and doubting the meaning of persistence; reciprocal dedication in nurse-patient relationships, characterised by nurses' emotional investment in care and patients' positive feedback as motivation; and increased sense of professional value, demonstrated through increased confidence in caregiving, enhanced self-care ability, and achievement of job fulfilment.

Conclusions: This study explores the real and intuitive experiences of haematology nurses caring for haematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients in China, enhancing our understanding of the care process. It revealed haematology nurses' challenges and positive experiences in caring for haematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients.

Impact: This study provides evidence to optimise the haematopoietic stem cell transplantation nursing process and develop targeted support systems, which are crucial for enhancing nurses' sense of professional value and ensuring their well-being.

Patient or public contribution: This paper benefited from the contributions of 18 haematology nurses, who shared their valuable experiences and emotions.