Patient, nursing and medical staff experiences and perceptions of the care of people with palliative esophagogastric cancer: A systematic review of the qualitative evidence

Abstract

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Background Esophagogastric cancer is the fifth most common malignancy and its incidence is increasing. The disease progresses quickly and five-year survival rates are poor. Treatment with palliative intent is provided for the majority of patients but there remains a lack of empirical evidence on the most effective service models to support esophagogastric cancer patients. Objectives The overall objective of this systematic review was to synthesize the best available evidence on the experiences and perceptions of patients and health professionals with regard to the care of people diagnosed with palliative esophagogastric cancer. Inclusion criteria Search strategy A three-step search strategy was utilized. A total 11 databases were searched for studies from 2000 onward, followed by hand searching of reference lists. Methodological quality Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument critical appraisal tool (JBI-QARI). Data extraction Qualitative findings were extracted using the JBI-QARI data extraction Instrument. Data synthesis Qualitative research findings were pooled using a pragmatic meta-aggregative approach. Results The review included two publications. There were 46 findings which were aggregated into four categories and one overall synthesized finding: "In addition to support for physical needs, patients need support that takes into account changing life situations to achieve the best quality of life." Conclusions The review shows that patients value services and support that addresses their complex, fluctuating and highly individual needs. No evidence was uncovered regarding how these services should be designed and delivered.