A Longitudinal Qualitative Study on the Perioperative Symptom-Demand Journey Map of Patients with Cervical Cancer

Background: This longitudinal qualitative study explored dynamic changes in symptoms and evolving needs among perioperative cervical cancer patients. Findings were intended to support the development of targeted perioperative nursing interventions for this population. Methods: Using a purposive sampling approach and Maslow's hierarchy of needs as the theoretical framework, 14 cervical cancer patients were recruited from a gynecology center at a university hospital in Northwest China. Semi-structured interviews were conducted at three stages: 1-2 days before surgery, 1-3 days after surgery, and before discharge, between April and June 2025. A longitudinal qualitative design was applied for data analysis, and a patient journey map was developed. Results: (1) Six themes emerged: impacts of disease and surgery on physiological needs; worries about medical safety and prognosis; disruptions to intimate and social relationships; diminished self-worth; coexistence of information demand and overload; and redefined life meaning through illness. (2) A perioperative symptom-needs journey map was constructed, with time as the horizontal axis and five core dimensions (goals, symptoms, needs, emotions, key personnel) as the vertical axis. (3) It visualized dynamic symptoms, contributing factors and evolving needs across the three stages. Conclusion: Perioperative symptoms in cervical cancer patients are complex and multi-factorial, with needs across physiological, safety, esteem, cognitive and self-actualization domains changing dynamically. Healthcare providers should monitor these variations, implement individualized symptom management, meet stage-specific care needs, and improve patients' symptom experience and prognosis.