Oncology nurses' communication practices and challenges towards advance care planning: a sequential explanatory mixed‐method study

Aims

This study aims to explore the practice of advance care planning (ACP) among Chinese oncology nurses and identify challenges influencing care provision.

Design

A sequential explanatory mixed-method design was employed, comprising a quantitative phase to assess communication practices, followed by a qualitative phase to explore the challenges faced in ACP.

Methods

The study employed convenience sampling, including 532 oncology nurses from seven hospitals in northern China. Quantitative data were collected through a cross-sectional survey and the ACP communication index from December 2021 to January 2022. The qualitative phase consisted of 19 interviews conducted between May and July 2022, which were thematically analysed to elucidate the challenges in ACP practices.

Results

Quantitative findings revealed a low frequency of ACP communication among Chinese oncology nurses. Qualitative analysis identified four themes: lack of optimal timing, passive engagement of patients or families, reluctance of healthcare professionals and unsupported policies.

Conclusion

The study concluded that identified challenges compromise the effectiveness of ACP practices among Chinese oncology nurses. Inadequate communication, limited interdisciplinary collaboration and policy gaps contribute to nonstandardised ACP processes.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to enhance nurses' communication skills, foster interdisciplinary collaboration and provide policy support. Such interventions are pivotal to optimising end-of-life care in oncology settings and facilitating the integration of ACP into routine nursing practices.

Reporting Methods

This study adhered to the Mixed Methods Article Reporting Standards.

Patient or Public Contribution

No contributions from patients or the public were involved in this study.