Experience of symptom clusters and the supportive needs of patients undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy for cervical cancer: a qualitative study

Abstract Purpose To explore the experience of symptom clusters and the current status of supportive need of cervical cancer patients after concurrent chemoradiotherapy and to provide a basis for improving symptom management and social support systems for cervical cancer patients. Methods In this phenomenological study, a total of 13 patients who had undergone concurrent chemoradiotherapy for cervical cancer were selected using a purposive sampling method. From January to October 2022, semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted to collect data and a seven-step Colaizzi process was used for data analysis. Results Three themes for the symptom cluster experience were found: declining quality of life, prominent negative emotions, and ineffective response to symptoms. Three themes of patient support needs were identified: mental and psychological needs, medical service needs and desired social support.The subtopics corresponded to these themes. Conclusions Patients with concurrent chemoradiotherapy of cervical cancer have a long disease course, more adverse reactions, and many cluster symptoms, which lead to a high demand for support. Medical staff should strengthen the education of patients about the disease, provide a systematic continuity of care information management platform, establish an effective emotional support system, make comprehensive efforts to reduce the financial burden on patients, promote physical and mental rehabilitation of patients, and improve their quality of life.