Comparative Effectiveness of Psychosocial Interventions on Family Function and Resilience for Cancer Caregivers: A Systematic Review With Pairwise and Network Meta-analysis.

Background: Improving family function and resilience among cancer caregivers is a vital clinical concern requiring thorough research. Psychosocial interventions are expected to enhance family function and strengthen resilience; however, the outcomes can differ significantly, highlighting the necessity for further investigation.

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of psychosocial interventions in enhancing family function and resilience among caregivers of cancer patients based on data derived from randomized controlled trials.

Methods: A systematic review was performed by searching 6 electronic databases and clinical trial registries until July 12, 2024. Pairwise and network meta-analyses (NMA) were performed using the network package in STATA 16.

Results: This review identified 12 studies with a total of 1162 participants. The pairwise meta-analysis revealed a significant positive impact of psychosocial interventions on family function: standardized mean difference (SMD), 1.34; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.16-2.52. NMA showed family interaction approaches (SMD, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.22-1.15) and psychoeducation interventions (SMD, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.24-1.08) both led to improvements in family function. However, neither the pairwise meta-analysis nor the NMA revealed the positive effects of psychosocial interventions on resilience.

Conclusion: Evidence suggests that psychosocial interventions can moderately improve family function. Among the various interventions explored, the family interactions demonstrated the most significant potential for effectiveness. However, resilience meta-analyses have not supported our psychosocial intervention recommendations.

Implications for practice: This study offers valuable insights for nursing practice, emphasizing the need for nurses to consider the relationships and resources available within the families of cancer patients while providing care.