Real-Life Experiences of Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Patients with Cancer: A Qualitative Meta-Synthesis Study

Abstract

Purpose: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is an unpleasant symptom experienced by most cancer survivors who receive neurotoxic chemotherapy. It is not life threatening; however, it impairs sensorimotor skills, thereby interfering with daily activities and reducing the quality of life. Healthcare providers are becoming increasingly aware of the significance of its management. Nonetheless, a lack of understanding remains. This study aimed to understand the experience of cancer survivors with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.

Data sources: The selection and search for relevant literature conformed to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols guidelines. Four databases were searched for literature exploring the experiences of cancer survivors with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. Moreover, articles from reference lists were retrieved. Of 969 collected articles, 13 qualitative studies were included. The seven-step meta-ethnography developed by Noblits and Hare was used to analyze and synthesize selected studies. This study complied with the enhancing transparency in reporting the synthesis of qualitative research guidelines.

Conclusion: Three themes ("Tough and challenging life with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy," "Being patient in a chaotic life," and "Transition to a new way of life") and six subthemes were derived after reviewing, analyzing, and synthesizing selected study findings. They faced difficult daily challenges and endured psychologically chaotic moments; however, they gradually learned to live with the symptoms and adapted their way of life.

Implications for nursing practice: This review emphasizes the importance of the need for personalized nursing interventions promoting self-management and new adaptation strategies for gaining better understanding of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.

Keywords: Cancer survivors; Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy; Life experiences; Qualitative research.