Real-life experience of implantable venous access ports for cancer patients: a Meta-synthesis of qualitative research

Objective To analyze and summarize the real-life experiences of cancer patients using infusion ports both domestically and internationally.

Methods Literatures were searched in the Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global (PQDT), CNKI, Wanfang Database, VIP, and China Biology Medicine up to May 1, 2023. After rigorous evaluation of the retrieved literature, the themes related to the real-life experiences of cancer patients with infusion ports were analyzed and synthesized.

Results A total of 13 articles were included, with 6 in Chinese and 7 in English. From these, 64 findings were extracted, comprehensively categorized into 7 groups, and further consolidated into 3 main results: diverse needs across different stages of cancer patients with infusion ports, dynamically intertwined positive and negative psychological states in response to encountered events, and the establishment of a new normal in life experiences for cancer patients with infusion ports.

Conclusion Clinical nurses should recognize and address the varying needs of cancer patients with implantable venous access ports at different stages, strengthen their positive experiences, alleviate their negative experiences, assist in adapting to life with implantable venous access ports, improve the quality of nursing services, and enhance patients' sense of happiness.