Original Article

Supportive Care Needs in Cancer Patients Undergoing Cancer Immunotherapy

Ji Hyun Sung1  

Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, Keimyung University, Daegu, Republic of Korea

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the supportive care needs in cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy and to identify priority areas for tailored nursing interventions. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 75 adult cancer patients receiving immunotherapy at a university hospital outpatient clinic in South Korea. Data were collected using the Korean version of the Supportive Care Needs Survey-Long Form 59. Descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, and one-way ANOVA were used for data analysis. Results: Standardized scores for supportive care needs ranged from 13.67 to 32.24. Support care needs differed significantly by marital status, religion, and sex. The highest needs were identified in the ‘health system and information’ domain, followed by the ‘patient care and support needs’ domain. Across all domains, the three most frequently reported unmet needs were: (1) Being given choices about when to go in for tests or treatment, (2) Fears about the cancer spreading, and (3) Being given explanations of those tests for which you would like explanations. Conclusion: The findings highlight the urgent need for individualized information provision, patient education to enhance self-management, and ongoing psychological support. To address these needs effectively, digital healthcare interventions and the active involvement of advanced practice nurses are recommended.

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