Nursing Care Quality in Oncology: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Introduction. Nursing care quality is a complex and multidimensional concept for which no universally accepted definition exists. Its interpretation may also differ between patients and nurses. In oncology, this complexity is amplified by the emotional, relational, and clinical demands of the care pathway. This review aimed to map and synthesize the literature on nursing care quality in oncology, identifying its principal dimensions, associated factors, outcomes, and conceptual evolution.

Methods. A scoping review was conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and reported in accordance with PRISMA-ScR. MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for articles published in English or Italian. Grey literature was excluded. Data were synthesized narratively and examined through exploratory text analysis.

Results. Twenty-nine studies were included. Four principal themes emerged: Caring, Patient Experience, Quality of Nursing Care, and Measurement and Evaluation. Associated factors were grouped into three categories: patients’ clinical and demographic characteristics, care-related and relational aspects, and organizational factors. Nursing care quality was associated with satisfaction and trust, psychological well-being, clinical outcomes, and quality of life.

Discussion. Nursing care quality in oncology has evolved from a predominantly humanistic perspective towards a multidimensional construct integrating relational, experiential, organizational, and evaluative components. Combining person-centred relationships with standardized assessment approaches may support evidence-based nursing practice and a more comprehensive evaluation of care quality.