Care Processes and Quality-of-Life Outcomes Affecting the Gynecologic Cancer Survivorship Experience

Purpose: To describe and assess physical and psychosocial concerns and care processes related to cancer and treatment in gynecologic cancer survivors.

Participants & Setting: 44 survivors of gynecologic cancer at City of Hope National Medical Center in southern California were enrolled.

Methodologic Approach: A descriptive mixed-methods approach was used. Data were collected on survivorship care plan implementation, supportive care referrals, and barriers to receiving care. Participants completed questionnaires assessing quality of life, unmet needs, and other outcomes at three, six, and nine months after enrollment. Changes over time were analyzed, and quantitative and qualitative results were compared.

Findings: The most common unmet needs were stress reduction, side effect management, fear of cancer recurrence (FCR), and perception of adequate communication among the care team. Qualitative themes centered around communication, care coordination, FCR, financial distress, and need for information about peer support and healthy lifestyles.

Implications for Nursing: Nurses play a key role in coordinating care, assessing symptoms, and addressing psychosocial concerns. Providing education and coaching can reduce stress and facilitate survivors’ self-management and self-efficacy.