Mapping the radiotherapy journey of patients with head and neck cancer: A qualitative study.

Authors

Shuang Yang, Shupei Wang, Mengyue Han, Junshuang Wang, Lijie Chen

Published in

Asia-Pacific journal of oncology nursing. Volume 13. Pages 100984. Epub May 19, 2026.

Abstract

To explore the multidimensional challenges and unmet care needs across the radiotherapy trajectory of patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) using a patient journey map, and to identify key intervention nodes, providing a basis for improving clinical management and patients' well-being.
A descriptive qualitative research design was employed, and semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 18 patients with HNC receiving radiotherapy in the Department of Radiation Oncology at Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital in Tianjin, China, between September and December 2025. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi's seven-step method, and a patient journey map was constructed for visualization.
Four themes were identified: (1) Physiological Trajectory of Suffering Accompanying Cumulative Toxicity Challenges, transitioning from latent early discomforts to severe prolonged symptom burdens; (2) Psychological Trajectory Intertwined with Cognitive Biases and Emotional Fluctuations, characterized by early expectancy violations, mid-term treatment burnout, and late-stage fear of recurrence; (3) Self-Identity Disruption and Social Withdrawal Precipitated by Altered Facial Appearance and Oral Feeding Dysfunction, highlighting how disrupted "social commensality" and body image disturbances lead to social isolation; and (4) Dynamic Evolution of Multidimensional Needs and Transitional Care Discontinuity, shifting from early information overload to a critical need for continuity of care post-discharge.
The needs of patients with HNC during radiotherapy exhibit a complex, non-linear evolution. Future efforts should establish a phased, precision nursing model centered on "cognitive correction-crisis intervention-continuity empowerment." Integrating digital intervention technologies with peer support strategies may help address symptom burdens and social reintegration barriers, supporting high-quality care across the radiotherapy trajectory and improving patients' quality of life.

PMID:
42318597
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 19 Jun 2026.

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