Nursing interventions to improve the mental well-being of cancer patients : a descriptive literature review

Abstract

Cancer diagnosis and its treatment result in significant mental distress and impact the mental well-being of cancer patients. The stress of cancer can affect the patient in different ways, such as emotional, cognitive and behavioral aspects. This study reviews the role of nursing interventions in improving the mental well-being of individuals who are suffering from cancer. The purpose of this bachelor’s thesis was to conduct a descriptive literature review to describe the nursing interventions that can improve the mental well-being of cancer patients. This study aimed to produce new knowledge among nurses regarding effective strategies to improve the mental wellbeing of cancer patients. The literature search was done by using PICO analysis, which properly guided to creation of research questions and to search for relevant research articles. Seventeen articles were reviewed through inductive content analysis and carefully selected from reliable research platforms such as CINAHL and PubMed.

The findings highlight that targeted nursing interventions significantly contribute to reducing anxiety, depression, and emotional fatigue. Adult patients who have received emotional support from effective nursing interventions have improved their mental well being and quality of life. To gain better outcomes, nursing interventions that provide psychological support need to start from the early stage of cancer diagnosis. Although it takes more time to gain results than physical treatments, this study underscores the importance of integrating mental health support into oncology nursing practice to provide holistic, patient-centered care.