Prognostic communication preferences of cancer patients: A hybrid concept analysis

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze a comprehensive concept of prognostic communication preferences among cancer patients, focusing on their attributes, antecedents, and consequences. Methods: A hybrid concept analysis was employed. In the theoretical phase, a literature review across 10 databases (e.g., PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library) was conducted. The fieldwork phase included semi-structured interviews with six cancer patients recruited from oncology departments of a general hospital in southern China between May and July 2024. In the final analytic phase, findings from the above two phases were synthesized to develop a comprehensive understanding of the concept. Results: Twenty-four studies were included. The study identified key attributes of prognostic communication preferences, including communication modality, information characteristics, and external support. Antecedents included personal characteristics, the medical context, and professional factors. The consequences of aligned communication included enhanced patient satisfaction, psychological well-being, and decision-making quality. Conclusions: This research provides a comprehensive definition of prognostic communication preferences of cancer patients. The findings offer insights to guide clinicians and nurses in tailoring prognostic communication to better meet patients' unique preferences across multiple levels, supporting patient-centered care and shared decision-making.