Work

Experiences and needs related to perioperative nutritional management among patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: A descriptive phenomenological study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Objective: To explore the lived experiences and needs of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) regarding perioperative nutritional management. Methods: This descriptive phenomenological study used purposive maximum-variation sampling at a national medical center in Shanghai, China. Thirty-three patients with HCC (17 preoperative and 16 postoperative) each completed one semi-structured interview between June and September 2025. Recruitment continued until data saturation. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi's seven-step method. Results: Four themes were identified: lack of nutritional management awareness, pressing needs for support, navigating practical challenges, and active engagement in nutritional self-management. Participants described limited understanding, reliance on professional guidance, conflicting advice, unappealing hospital food, financial and emotional burdens, and different levels of involvement in nutritional decisions and self-management. Conclusions: Interpreted through Self-Efficacy Theory, the findings suggest that confidence may influence how patients engage with perioperative nutritional care. Clear, individualized guidance and support for patient participation warrant evaluation in future interventional studies.

Source: Asia-Pacific Journal of Oncology Nursing

DOI: 10.1016/j.apjon.2026.101042

Authors: Xiangxiang Wen, Shoumei Jia, Baobing Yin, Chunyan Hu, Jie Jia

Institutions: Fudan University, Huashan Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterology

Subfield: Nutrition and Dietetics

Field: Nursing

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,980