Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences最新文献

{"title":"The Silent Crisis of Cervical Insufficiency: A Hermeneutic Phenomenological Study on Pregnant Women's Lived Experiences.","authors":"Şüheda Girgin, Yasemin Hamlaci Baskaya","doi":"10.1111/scs.70185","DOIUrl":"10.1111/scs.70185","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Cervical insufficiency treated with cerclage and/or pessary often requires hospitalisation and bed rest. This experience can be distressing and may lead to psychological trauma for pregnant women.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>To explore the experiences of pregnant women living with cervical insufficiency and receiving treatment during pregnancy.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A hermeneutic phenomenological qualitative study was conducted by interviewing 14 pregnant women who were hospitalised for cervical insufficiency and treated with cerclage and/or pessary. Data were collected through in-depth individual interviews, recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using Van Manen's hermeneutic phenomenological method.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Four main themes emerged: reaction to the diagnosis, effects of the condition and its treatment, challenges, and coping/support mechanisms. Women reported fear of fetal loss and uncertainty following diagnosis. Many sought information independently due to limited professional guidance. Bed rest, constipation, and hygiene difficulties were commonly reported. Emotional strain, disrupted routines, and strained partner relationships were also noted. Despite these difficulties, women developed coping strategies and found support from their families, healthcare providers, and personal faith.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Providing timely and clear information about the diagnosis and treatment may help reduce psychological distress in pregnant women. Midwives can play a vital role by offering continuous emotional and informational support throughout the process. Further studies are needed to explore such support in diverse cultural settings.</p>","PeriodicalId":48171,"journal":{"name":"Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences","volume":"40 1","pages":"e70185"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145991490","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Integrating Multiple Roles: The Social Context of Spousal Cancer Caregiving.","authors":"Dana Ketcher, Rachael McCormick Stickler, Amy K Otto, Maija Reblin","doi":"10.1111/scs.70174","DOIUrl":"10.1111/scs.70174","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Cancer family caregiving is a growing issue in the US. Several widely used conceptual models focused on the cancer caregiving experience highlight the importance of context as a mechanism for how the care experience impacts caregiver and patient outcomes. However, fewer studies explore how the existing social context, including pre-existing roles and prior experiences with care, can impact conceptualisation of a current caregiving role.</p><p><strong>Purpose: </strong>Our goal was to identify how spouse caregivers frame their caregiving role and experience within their existing roles and social contexts.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We performed a secondary qualitative analysis using a hybrid approach of deductive and inductive coding to identify themes in interviews from spouses of patients with advanced cancer.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Interviews from 30 heterosexual spousal caregivers were analysed. Most caregivers were White (87%) and female (83%), with a mean age of 66.63 (SD = 10.29) years. Caregiving experiences were contextualised within the following themes: caregiving role within a spousal role, formative experiences and social interactions and influence.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Caregivers' various roles, including that of spouse, and prior experiences and interactions helped them to make sense of their caregiving role, create meaning and help shape expectations. Our analysis works towards a more nuanced, complex integration of caregiving history and its role in a broader social context. Future work should continue to explore specific contextual aspects of caregiving; a broader ecological model of caregiving could be useful in theory and practice.</p>","PeriodicalId":48171,"journal":{"name":"Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences","volume":"40 1","pages":"e70174"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145991471","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Experiences and Attitudes of Nurses Caring for People Undergoing Gender-Affirming Surgery: A Qualitative Study.","authors":"Buse Peynirci, Meltem Mecdi Kaydırak","doi":"10.1111/scs.70216","DOIUrl":"10.1111/scs.70216","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Aim: </strong>The aim of this study is to explore the experiences and attitudes of nurses caring for people undergoing gender-affirming surgery.</p><p><strong>Design: </strong>This study was designed as a qualitative descriptive study.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The theoretical thematic analysis approach was used to analyse the data. The research data were collected through in-depth individual interviews. The study sample consisted of 25 nurses who met the inclusion criteria and provided individualised care to persons undergoing gender-affirming surgery.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Nurses' narratives about their experiences and attitudes in providing care: (1) nurses' attitudes, (2) factors affecting nurses' attitudes, (3) nurses' experiences of care, (4) procedures affecting care, and (5) suggestions for improving the quality of care were summarised under five main themes. Although nurses did not express negative attitudes toward patients, they were found to have overlapping biases. In addition, using the code map, situations such as lack of information, communication problems, physical environment, etc. were found to affect nursing care.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>As a result, it was found that nurses' experiences and attitudes affected the care of people in the process of gender transition; there were many factors that made their care more difficult and easier.</p><p><strong>Implications for the profession: </strong>This study underscores the need for targeted training to address biases, improve communication, and enhance understanding of gender transition care among nurses. Creating supportive policies, inclusive environments, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration can improve care quality.</p><p><strong>Impact: </strong>This research examines the experiences and attitudes of nurses providing care to individuals undergoing gender-affirming surgery, highlighting factors influencing care quality and areas for improvement. The study illustrated practice across five domains: nurses' attitudes, factors affecting nurses' attitudes, nurses' experiences of care, procedures affecting care, and suggestions for improving the quality of care.</p><p><strong>Reporting method: </strong>SRQR guidelines for qualitative studies.</p><p><strong>Patient or public contribution: </strong>No patient or public contribution.</p>","PeriodicalId":48171,"journal":{"name":"Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences","volume":"40 1","pages":"e70216"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12972247/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147391000","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"The Role of Family Care on the Quality of Life of Patients With Permanent Enterostomies: A Chain-Mediated Effect of Inner Strength and Patient Activation.","authors":"Juecen Liu, Yating Xu, Meixuan Song, Xianrong Li","doi":"10.1111/scs.70226","DOIUrl":"10.1111/scs.70226","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Permanent enterostomy significantly affects patients' lives, making their postoperative quality of life (QoL) a critical concern in clinical practice. Understanding the psychosocial mechanisms that improve QoL is essential for developing effective interventions.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>Grounded in the conservation of resources (COR) theory, this study aimed to investigate the mechanism through which family care influences the QoL of patients with permanent enterostomies, specifically by testing the chain-mediating roles of inner strength (as a psychological resource) and patient activation (as a behavioural resource).</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 315 patients with permanent enterostomies from a tertiary hospital. Data were collected using a general information questionnaire, the Family APGAR Index, the Inner Strength Scale (ISS), the Patient Activation Measure (PAM), and the Stoma Quality of Life Scale (Stoma-QoL). The hypothesized chain mediation model was examined using SPSS PROCESS Macro (Model 6), controlling for key demographic variables.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Family care was significantly positively correlated with inner strength, patient activation, and QoL (all p < 0.01). Inner strength and patient activation were also significantly correlated with each other and with QoL (all p < 0.01). The chain mediation analysis revealed that family care not only directly predicted QoL but also exerted its influence through three significant indirect pathways: the independent mediation of inner strength, the independent mediation of patient activation, and the chain mediation from inner strength to patient activation. The total indirect effect was significant.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Family care, as an external resource, may enhance QoL by fostering patients' inner strength, which in turn promotes proactive health behaviours. These findings support a \"resource-psychology-behaviour\" transformation pathway. They highlight the potential importance of moving beyond purely physiological care. To optimize long-term outcomes, healthcare professionals could consider developing interventions that integrate family support, psychological empowerment, and behavioural skills training.</p>","PeriodicalId":48171,"journal":{"name":"Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences","volume":"40 1","pages":"e70226"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13009318/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147505185","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Exploring Patient Experiences of Symptom Support From Healthcare Professionals in Acute and Chronic Illness: A Qualitative Study.","authors":"Malene Missel, Mary Jarden, Nanna Witting, Helle Pappot, Mai Nanna Schønau, Maria Camilla Mathiasen, Camilla Corvinius, Pernille Orloff Donsel, Melissa Culligan, Giulia Locatelli, Karin Piil, Linda Kahr Andersen","doi":"10.1111/scs.70210","DOIUrl":"10.1111/scs.70210","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Symptoms are a central part of living with illness, and healthcare professionals play a crucial role in supporting patients in the managing of these. Symptom support is not only about alleviating physical discomfort but also about addressing the subjective and existential dimensions of illness. Understanding how patients experience such support is essential for strengthening communication, dignity, and person-centred care.</p><p><strong>Aims: </strong>This study aims to explore the meaning of patients' experience of support from HCP in managing symptoms, and how this meaning shapes their understanding of symptoms and subsequent strategies.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A qualitative design was applied. In-depth interviews were conducted with 10 patients diagnosed with acute or chronic illness and receiving care in hospital and outpatient settings. Data were analysed using a phenomenological hermeneutic approach inspired by Ricoeur.</p><p><strong>Findings: </strong>Three themes were identified. Caught in the gaps of continuity in care describes how patients experienced symptom support as fragmented and inconsistent, shaped both by organisational structures and the professionals they encountered. Dialogue, relationship and professional knowledge as a vulnerable space highlights how encounters with healthcare professionals were perceived as fragile moments, where recognition, time, and competence could either foster trust or leave patients feeling exposed. Between silence and support in the healthcare encounter reflects how organisational structures and clinical routines often failed to address patients' concerns, creating silent spaces where symptoms and existential needs were overlooked.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Patient experiences reveal how symptom support is shaped by both relational vulnerability and systemic fragmentation. When symptoms are overlooked, patients feel abandoned and burdened with coordinating their own care. Strengthening relational continuity, clarifying roles across professions explicitly to patients, and prioritising dialogue and empathy in clinical encounters are crucial steps toward ensuring person-centred symptom management that promotes dignity and well-being.</p>","PeriodicalId":48171,"journal":{"name":"Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences","volume":"40 1","pages":"e70210"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12946600/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147311310","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Experiences of Patients, Family Members and Nurses in Outpatient Cancer Care: A Multi-Method Qualitative Study.","authors":"Nerea Azcárate-Cenoz, Cristina Alfaro-Díaz, Ana Ojer Perea, María Ángeles Soteras Ramírez, Cristina Arellano Gil, Patricia Beorlegui Murillo, Nuria Esandi","doi":"10.1111/scs.70215","DOIUrl":"10.1111/scs.70215","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>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.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>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.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>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.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>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.</p>","PeriodicalId":48171,"journal":{"name":"Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences","volume":"40 1","pages":"e70215"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12967731/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147379271","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Development of the Health Humanities Competence Scale for Multidisciplinary Healthcare Professional Students.","authors":"Hsiang-Chu Pai","doi":"10.1111/scs.70212","DOIUrl":"10.1111/scs.70212","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Healthcare professionals often require a greater awareness of health and humanities than others. However, a Health Humanities Competence Scale (HHCS) for medical university healthcare professional students (HPS) has not been established yet.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study aims to provide original, reliable, and valid measures for a HHCS for HPS that reflects the humanistic abilities of multidisciplinary healthcare professional students towards themselves, their families, and their professional relationships.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>An observational design was adopted in this study. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to extract the factors of health humanities competence, and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to confirm reliability and validity, through a model fit assessment.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>PCA identified three factors in the HHCS for HPS: self, family, and profession-related health and humanities, which explained 24.78%, 21.98%, and 18.67% of the variance, respectively. The final 19-item instrument with the three factors explained 65.44% of the total variance. The Cronbach's alpha value was 0.92. Additionally, CFA identified a second-order factor, HHCS for HPS. Overall, the goodness-of-fit indices indicated a satisfactory fit of the entire model (χ²/df = 1.31, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation = 0.069, Comparative Fit Index = 0.94, Tucker-Lewis Index = 0.93). Additionally, the HHCS for HPS scores were significantly and positively correlated with the empathy subscale scores of the Communication Effectiveness Profile (r = 0.63, p < 0.01). Therefore, the results reveal that the HHCS for HPS demonstrates strong convergent validity.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The original three factors (19 items) demonstrated support for use by university healthcare students. A larger sample could strengthen the reliability and validity of the scale. However, the three-factor model is a useful measurement tool for assessing the demonstration of health humanities competencies by healthcare professional students.</p>","PeriodicalId":48171,"journal":{"name":"Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences","volume":"40 1","pages":"e70212"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12946591/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147311268","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Sexuality, a Fundamental Care Need-Theoretical and Clinical Considerations, a Discursive Paper.","authors":"Birgitte Schantz Laursen, Philippa Rasmussen, Siri Lygum Voldbjerg, Mette Grønkjær, Britt Laugesen","doi":"10.1111/scs.70207","DOIUrl":"10.1111/scs.70207","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Sexuality is a crucial component of quality of life yet often remains an under-recognised and overlooked patient need within nursing care. Despite patients expressing a desire to discuss their sexuality with nurses, significant barriers hinder these conversations, leading to unmet needs and potential negative impacts on well-being.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>This discursive paper aims to discuss how the Fundamentals of Care (FoC) framework can support nurses in acknowledging and addressing sexuality as a fundamental aspect of patient care.</p><p><strong>Method: </strong>A broad, structured literature search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL and Embase (2010-2026) focusing on sexuality, fundamental care needs, nursing theories and the nurse's role in addressing sexual dysfunction. The findings were critically reflected upon using the FoC framework as a lens for understanding and improving practice.</p><p><strong>Findings: </strong>The analysis reveals that the FoC framework's emphasis on relationship, integration of care and context can facilitate a more holistic and patient-centred approach to addressing sexuality. Integrating the PLISSIT model (Permission, Limited Information, Specific Suggestions, Intensive Therapy) alongside the FoC framework provides a structured approach to initiating conversations and offering support. Organisational support, clear guidelines and adequate nurse education are also critical for overcoming barriers and fostering a culture where sexuality is openly addressed.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Utilising the FoC framework, supplemented by the PLISSIT model and a supportive organisational context, can empower nurses to acknowledge and address patients' sexual needs, ultimately improving their overall well-being and breaking down the 'two-way taboo' surrounding sexuality in healthcare.</p>","PeriodicalId":48171,"journal":{"name":"Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences","volume":"40 1","pages":"e70207"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12920785/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146228623","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Health and Social Care Professionals' Perspectives of the Desired Interprofessional Collaboration in Frequent Attenders' Person-Centred Care: A Qualitative Study.","authors":"Kaisa Hartikainen, Minna Elomaa-Krapu, Leena Salminen, Miia Laasanen, Heli Virtanen","doi":"10.1111/scs.70217","DOIUrl":"10.1111/scs.70217","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Aim: </strong>The aim of the study was to describe the desired nature of interprofessional collaboration (IPC) in person-centred care (PCC) for frequent attenders (FA). The study employed a futures thinking approach to create an alternative vision of the future, aiming to understand how professionals should collaborate across organisational boundaries to achieve successful integration in person-centred care for FAs.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The semi-structured interviews with social and healthcare professionals (n = 38) delivering care and services for frequent attenders were conducted in three public health and social care organisations in Southern Finland. Inductive content analysis was used. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee for Human Sciences at the University of Turku, and research permissions were secured from all participating organisations. Research participants confirmed their voluntary participation through electronic informed consent.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Social and health care professionals described the desired interprofessional collaboration in person-centred care for FAs through a unified operating culture and values and integrated and adaptive care management. It was described through continuous co-creation of joint networks, outreach interprofessional practices and fostering a collaborative culture among social and healthcare professionals and other stakeholders across organisations. FAs and their close ones are seen as key members of the interprofessional team, collaborating with professionals to construct and maintain a holistic view of the FA, ensuring seamless service interfaces.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>In the future the desired IPC can be achieved by co-creating and implementing cross-organisational practices and investing in nurturing innovation-oriented professionals who serve as bridge-builders across sectors. Furthermore, interprofessional learning, the involvement of experts by experience, and training in co-creation and flexible networking skills enhance professionals' capacity to address the complex needs of FAs in the future.</p>","PeriodicalId":48171,"journal":{"name":"Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences","volume":"40 1","pages":"e70217"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12976168/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147436672","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Impact of Lymphedema on Women's Lives After Gynaecological Cancer: An Integrative Review.","authors":"Pernille Dehn, Anette Rasmussen, Lene Seibæk, Ragnhild Johanne Tveit Sekse, Anne Marie Thimm, Mette Linnet Olesen","doi":"10.1111/scs.70189","DOIUrl":"10.1111/scs.70189","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Secondary Lower-Limb Lymphedema (LLL) is a frequent, progressive late effect affecting women after gynaecological cancer treatment, causing swelling due to fluid accumulation in the interstitial spaces in the lower extremities, the lower abdomen, hips and genitals. There is no consensus on how to define and quantify LLL, which makes research on treatment effect difficult. A negative relation between LLL and quality of life has been reported.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>To review the literature concerning the identification and impact of LLL on women's lives after gynaecological cancer, including physical, psycho-social and existential aspects.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>In an integrative review, as described by Whittemore & Knafl, data were thematically analysed.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Forty-one papers published between 2003 and 2024, encompassing a total of 11,488 participants, were included. The overarching theme was limited knowledge of LLL among healthcare professionals and patients and identification discrepancies. It highlighted a widespread lack of awareness among healthcare professionals and the absence of a standardised approach to LLL assessment. This was further substantiated by the considerable heterogeneity in both diagnostic and measurement methods. Consequently, women received minimal information, experienced delayed diagnoses and had restricted access to treatment. These shortcomings had a negative impact on daily life, affecting physical and psychosocial wellbeing, as well as sexual health. The women reported unmet needs, which led them to adopt proactive approaches and various coping strategies.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>LLL profoundly affects women's quality of life, physical and psychosocial health and existential well-being. Lack of standardised assessment and diagnostic criteria and clear care pathways creates knowledge gaps, delays diagnosis and fragments care, while its 'homeless' status leaves responsibility unclear. Urgent systemic change is needed: research must define evidence-based strategies and policy makers should prioritise multidisciplinary centres and education, with healthcare adopting patient-centred, multidisciplinary practices to ensure timely diagnosis, referral and self-management support.</p><p><strong>Trial registration: </strong>https://osf.io/jrh6c.</p>","PeriodicalId":48171,"journal":{"name":"Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences","volume":"40 1","pages":"e70189"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12907600/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146126693","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}