Nursing Roles in Cancer Rehabilitation

Background Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment, where focusing on patients' individual needs is essential.To provide an overview of existing evidence about nurses' roles and participation in cancer rehabilitation, based on both nurses' and patients' perspectives.A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Cochrane databases for studies published from January 2001-January 2022. Whittemore and Knafl's methodology for data extraction and synthesis was used, and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines were followed. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683).Ten qualitative studies and 7 quantitative studies were included, encompassing 306 patients and 1847 clinicians (1164 nurses). Three nursing roles emerged: (1) relationship-forming, in which nurses described ongoing involvement in patients' rehabilitation and patients described nurses as trusted partners; (2) coordinating, in which nurses described a lack of time and resources and a focus on medical treatment, and patients described nurses as expert coordinators; and (3) follow-up, in which patients described nurses as good communicators and trusted partners in their follow-up, and nurses described their natural interest in patients' rehabilitation outcomes during follow-up.Patients were comfortable with nurses as trusted partners during cancer rehabilitation. Significant barriers such as lack of time, resources, and education about rehabilitation may negatively influence rehabilitation planning, implementation, and monitoring.Clinicians can use the findings to improve cancer rehabilitation with the nurse as a central provider and conduct further research on the coordinating and follow-up roles.As cancer treatment improves, more patients with cancer survive and need help and support to maintain or regain functionality.1,2 Patients often struggle with adverse effects from cancer itself or from treatment. Typically, cancer treatment involves chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, endocrine therapy, or surgery, which may cause adverse physical, psychological, and social effects during treatment or even years after it is completed.2,3 Some adverse effects are mild and temporary; others can be life-threatening or permanent and intrusive in daily life.2 Among 449 Australian survivors of breast, lung, or colorectal cancer, 86% reported at least one adverse event during a 5-month follow-up period; the most common adverse event was fatigue, reported by 85% of survivors. Other adverse events included physical, psychological, and social factors.4Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment.3 In addition, help and support needs vary widely across cancer patients; involving them and focusing on their individual needs are essential when planning rehabilitation. Nurses are a relevant profession to include in rehabilitation, and rehabilitative nursing care should be an integrated part of all phases of person-centered care.5 Previous studies have demonstrated that nursing interventions from both nurse generalists and specially trained rehabilitation nurses are important components of cancer rehabilitation that can provide beneficial effects for patients. 5-7 For example, in a nurse-led randomized clinical trial of rehabilitation outcomes among 161 prostate cancer patients, a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program involving nurses, physicians, and physiotherapists reduced irritative urinary problems and increased physical quality of life.8,9It is important that all involved healthcare professionals understand their roles in planning and implementing multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs.10 Thus, it is essential to precisely identify effective nursing roles to optimize patient outcomes. The purpose of this integrative review was to synthesize existing evidence-based knowledge regarding nurses' participation and roles in cancer rehabilitation, from the perspectives of both nurses and patients. In this review, the definition of rehabilitation is from The White Paper-Rehabilitation in Denmark11:Rehabilitation is a targeted and time-bound collaborative process between a citizen, relatives, and professionals. The purpose is that the citizen who has or is at risk of getting significant limitations in physical, psychological and/or social functioning, achieves an independent and meaningful life. Rehabilitation is based on the citizen's entire life situation and decisions and consists of a coordinated, coherent and knowledge-based effort.An integrative review following the methodology of Whittemore and Knafl12 was selected because it allowed the inclusion of a range of study designs. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683) and follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines.13Background Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment, where focusing on patients' individual needs is essential.To provide an overview of existing evidence about nurses' roles and participation in cancer rehabilitation, based on both nurses' and patients' perspectives.A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Cochrane databases for studies published from January 2001-January 2022. Whittemore and Knafl's methodology for data extraction and synthesis was used, and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines were followed. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683).Ten qualitative studies and 7 quantitative studies were included, encompassing 306 patients and 1847 clinicians (1164 nurses). Three nursing roles emerged: (1) relationship-forming, in which nurses described ongoing involvement in patients' rehabilitation and patients described nurses as trusted partners; (2) coordinating, in which nurses described a lack of time and resources and a focus on medical treatment, and patients described nurses as expert coordinators; and (3) follow-up, in which patients described nurses as good communicators and trusted partners in their follow-up, and nurses described their natural interest in patients' rehabilitation outcomes during follow-up.Patients were comfortable with nurses as trusted partners during cancer rehabilitation. Significant barriers such as lack of time, resources, and education about rehabilitation may negatively influence rehabilitation planning, implementation, and monitoring.Clinicians can use the findings to improve cancer rehabilitation with the nurse as a central provider and conduct further research on the coordinating and follow-up roles.As cancer treatment improves, more patients with cancer survive and need help and support to maintain or regain functionality. 1,2 Patients often struggle with adverse effects from cancer itself or from treatment. Typically, cancer treatment involves chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, endocrine therapy, or surgery, which may cause adverse physical, psychological, and social effects during treatment or even years after it is completed.2,3 Some adverse effects are mild and temporary; others can be life-threatening or permanent and intrusive in daily life.2 Among 449 Australian survivors of breast, lung, or colorectal cancer, 86% reported at least one adverse event during a 5-month follow-up period; the most common adverse event was fatigue, reported by 85% of survivors. Other adverse events included physical, psychological, and social factors.4Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment.3 In addition, help and support needs vary widely across cancer patients; involving them and focusing on their individual needs are essential when planning rehabilitation. Nurses are a relevant profession to include in rehabilitation, and rehabilitative nursing care should be an integrated part of all phases of person-centered care.5 Previous studies have demonstrated that nursing interventions from both nurse generalists and specially trained rehabilitation nurses are important components of cancer rehabilitation that can provide beneficial effects for patients.5-7 For example, in a nurse-led randomized clinical trial of rehabilitation outcomes among 161 prostate cancer patients, a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program involving nurses, physicians, and physiotherapists reduced irritative urinary problems and increased physical quality of life.8,9It is important that all involved healthcare professionals understand their roles in planning and implementing multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs.10 Thus, it is essential to precisely identify effective nursing roles to optimize patient outcomes. The purpose of this integrative review was to synthesize existing evidence-based knowledge regarding nurses' participation and roles in cancer rehabilitation, from the perspectives of both nurses and patients. In this review, the definition of rehabilitation is from The White Paper-Rehabilitation in Denmark11:Rehabilitation is a targeted and time-bound collaborative process between a citizen, relatives, and professionals. The purpose is that the citizen who has or is at risk of getting significant limitations in physical, psychological and/or social functioning, achieves an independent and meaningful life. Rehabilitation is based on the citizen's entire life situation and decisions and consists of a coordinated, coherent and knowledge-based effort.An integrative review following the methodology of Whittemore and Knafl12 was selected because it allowed the inclusion of a range of study designs. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683) and follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines.13Background Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment, where focusing on patients' individual needs is essential.To provide an overview of existing evidence about nurses' roles and participation in cancer rehabilitation, based on both nurses' and patients' perspectives.A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Cochrane databases for studies published from January 2001-January 2022. Whittemore and Knafl's methodology for data extraction and synthesis was used, and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines were followed. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683).Ten qualitative studies and 7 quantitative studies were included, encompassing 306 patients and 1847 clinicians (1164 nurses). Three nursing roles emerged: (1) relationship-forming, in which nurses described ongoing involvement in patients' rehabilitation and patients described nurses as trusted partners; (2) coordinating, in which nurses described a lack of time and resources and a focus on medical treatment, and patients described nurses as expert coordinators; and (3) follow-up, in which patients described nurses as good communicators and trusted partners in their follow-up, and nurses described their natural interest in patients' rehabilitation outcomes during follow-up.Patients were comfortable with nurses as trusted partners during cancer rehabilitation. Significant barriers such as lack of time, resources, and education about rehabilitation may negatively influence rehabilitation planning, implementation, and monitoring.Clinicians can use the findings to improve cancer rehabilitation with the nurse as a central provider and conduct further research on the coordinating and follow-up roles.As cancer treatment improves, more patients with cancer survive and need help and support to maintain or regain functionality.1,2 Patients often struggle with adverse effects from cancer itself or from treatment. Typically, cancer treatment involves chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, endocrine therapy, or surgery, which may cause adverse physical, psychological, and social effects during treatment or even years after it is completed.2,3 Some adverse effects are mild and temporary; others can be life-threatening or permanent and intrusive in daily life.2 Among 449 Australian survivors of breast, lung, or colorectal cancer, 86% reported at least one adverse event during a 5-month follow-up period; the most common adverse event was fatigue, reported by 85% of survivors. Other adverse events included physical, psychological, and social factors.4Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment.3 In addition, help and support needs vary widely across cancer patients; involving them and focusing on their individual needs are essential when planning rehabilitation. Nurses are a relevant profession to include in rehabilitation, and rehabilitative nursing care should be an integrated part of all phases of person-centered care.5 Previous studies have demonstrated that nursing interventions from both nurse generalists and specially trained rehabilitation nurses are important components of cancer rehabilitation that can provide beneficial effects for patients.5-7 For example, in a nurse-led randomized clinical trial of rehabilitation outcomes among 161 prostate cancer patients, a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program involving nurses, physicians, and physiotherapists reduced irritative urinary problems and increased physical quality of life.8,9It is important that all involved healthcare professionals understand their roles in planning and implementing multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs.10 Thus, it is essential to precisely identify effective nursing roles to optimize patient outcomes. The purpose of this integrative review was to synthesize existing evidence-based knowledge regarding nurses' participation and roles in cancer rehabilitation, from the perspectives of both nurses and patients. In this review, the definition of rehabilitation is from The White Paper-Rehabilitation in Denmark11:Rehabilitation is a targeted and time-bound collaborative process between a citizen, relatives, and professionals. The purpose is that the citizen who has or is at risk of getting significant limitations in physical, psychological and/or social functioning, achieves an independent and meaningful life. Rehabilitation is based on the citizen's entire life situation and decisions and consists of a coordinated, coherent and knowledge-based effort.An integrative review following the methodology of Whittemore and Knafl12 was selected because it allowed the inclusion of a range of study designs. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683) and follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines.13Background Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment, where focusing on patients' individual needs is essential.To provide an overview of existing evidence about nurses' roles and participation in cancer rehabilitation, based on both nurses' and patients' perspectives.A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Cochrane databases for studies published from January 2001-January 2022. Whittemore and Knafl's methodology for data extraction and synthesis was used, and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines were followed. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683).Ten qualitative studies and 7 quantitative studies were included, encompassing 306 patients and 1847 clinicians (1164 nurses). Three nursing roles emerged: (1) relationship-forming, in which nurses described ongoing involvement in patients' rehabilitation and patients described nurses as trusted partners; (2) coordinating, in which nurses described a lack of time and resources and a focus on medical treatment, and patients described nurses as expert coordinators; and (3) follow-up, in which patients described nurses as good communicators and trusted partners in their follow-up, and nurses described their natural interest in patients' rehabilitation outcomes during follow-up.Patients were comfortable with nurses as trusted partners during cancer rehabilitation. Significant barriers such as lack of time, resources, and education about rehabilitation may negatively influence rehabilitation planning, implementation, and monitoring.Clinicians can use the findings to improve cancer rehabilitation with the nurse as a central provider and conduct further research on the coordinating and follow-up roles.As cancer treatment improves, more patients with cancer survive and need help and support to maintain or regain functionality.1,2 Patients often struggle with adverse effects from cancer itself or from treatment. Typically, cancer treatment involves chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, endocrine therapy, or surgery, which may cause adverse physical, psychological, and social effects during treatment or even years after it is completed.2,3 Some adverse effects are mild and temporary; others can be life-threatening or permanent and intrusive in daily life. 2 Among 449 Australian survivors of breast, lung, or colorectal cancer, 86% reported at least one adverse event during a 5-month follow-up period; the most common adverse event was fatigue, reported by 85% of survivors. Other adverse events included physical, psychological, and social factors.4Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment.3 In addition, help and support needs vary widely across cancer patients; involving them and focusing on their individual needs are essential when planning rehabilitation. Nurses are a relevant profession to include in rehabilitation, and rehabilitative nursing care should be an integrated part of all phases of person-centered care.5 Previous studies have demonstrated that nursing interventions from both nurse generalists and specially trained rehabilitation nurses are important components of cancer rehabilitation that can provide beneficial effects for patients.5-7 For example, in a nurse-led randomized clinical trial of rehabilitation outcomes among 161 prostate cancer patients, a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program involving nurses, physicians, and physiotherapists reduced irritative urinary problems and increased physical quality of life.8,9It is important that all involved healthcare professionals understand their roles in planning and implementing multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs.10 Thus, it is essential to precisely identify effective nursing roles to optimize patient outcomes. The purpose of this integrative review was to synthesize existing evidence-based knowledge regarding nurses' participation and roles in cancer rehabilitation, from the perspectives of both nurses and patients. In this review, the definition of rehabilitation is from The White Paper-Rehabilitation in Denmark11:Rehabilitation is a targeted and time-bound collaborative process between a citizen, relatives, and professionals. The purpose is that the citizen who has or is at risk of getting significant limitations in physical, psychological and/or social functioning, achieves an independent and meaningful life. Rehabilitation is based on the citizen's entire life situation and decisions and consists of a coordinated, coherent and knowledge-based effort.An integrative review following the methodology of Whittemore and Knafl12 was selected because it allowed the inclusion of a range of study designs. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683) and follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines.13Background Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment, where focusing on patients' individual needs is essential.To provide an overview of existing evidence about nurses' roles and participation in cancer rehabilitation, based on both nurses' and patients' perspectives.A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Cochrane databases for studies published from January 2001-January 2022. Whittemore and Knafl's methodology for data extraction and synthesis was used, and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines were followed. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683).Ten qualitative studies and 7 quantitative studies were included, encompassing 306 patients and 1847 clinicians (1164 nurses). Three nursing roles emerged: (1) relationship-forming, in which nurses described ongoing involvement in patients' rehabilitation and patients described nurses as trusted partners; (2) coordinating, in which nurses described a lack of time and resources and a focus on medical treatment, and patients described nurses as expert coordinators; and (3) follow-up, in which patients described nurses as good communicators and trusted partners in their follow-up, and nurses described their natural interest in patients' rehabilitation outcomes during follow-up.Patients were comfortable with nurses as trusted partners during cancer rehabilitation. Significant barriers such as lack of time, resources, and education about rehabilitation may negatively influence rehabilitation planning, implementation, and monitoring.Clinicians can use the findings to improve cancer rehabilitation with the nurse as a central provider and conduct further research on the coordinating and follow-up roles.As cancer treatment improves, more patients with cancer survive and need help and support to maintain or regain functionality.1,2 Patients often struggle with adverse effects from cancer itself or from treatment. Typically, cancer treatment involves chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, endocrine therapy, or surgery, which may cause adverse physical, psychological, and social effects during treatment or even years after it is completed.2,3 Some adverse effects are mild and temporary; others can be life-threatening or permanent and intrusive in daily life.2 Among 449 Australian survivors of breast, lung, or colorectal cancer, 86% reported at least one adverse event during a 5-month follow-up period; the most common adverse event was fatigue, reported by 85% of survivors. Other adverse events included physical, psychological, and social factors.4Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment.3 In addition, help and support needs vary widely across cancer patients; involving them and focusing on their individual needs are essential when planning rehabilitation. Nurses are a relevant profession to include in rehabilitation, and rehabilitative nursing care should be an integrated part of all phases of person-centered care.5 Previous studies have demonstrated that nursing interventions from both nurse generalists and specially trained rehabilitation nurses are important components of cancer rehabilitation that can provide beneficial effects for patients.5-7 For example, in a nurse-led randomized clinical trial of rehabilitation outcomes among 161 prostate cancer patients, a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program involving nurses, physicians, and physiotherapists reduced irritative urinary problems and increased physical quality of life.8,9It is important that all involved healthcare professionals understand their roles in planning and implementing multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs.10 Thus, it is essential to precisely identify effective nursing roles to optimize patient outcomes. The purpose of this integrative review was to synthesize existing evidence-based knowledge regarding nurses' participation and roles in cancer rehabilitation, from the perspectives of both nurses and patients. In this review, the definition of rehabilitation is from The White Paper-Rehabilitation in Denmark11:Rehabilitation is a targeted and time-bound collaborative process between a citizen, relatives, and professionals. The purpose is that the citizen who has or is at risk of getting significant limitations in physical, psychological and/or social functioning, achieves an independent and meaningful life. Rehabilitation is based on the citizen's entire life situation and decisions and consists of a coordinated, coherent and knowledge-based effort.An integrative review following the methodology of Whittemore and Knafl12 was selected because it allowed the inclusion of a range of study designs. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683) and follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines.13Background Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment, where focusing on patients' individual needs is essential.To provide an overview of existing evidence about nurses' roles and participation in cancer rehabilitation, based on both nurses' and patients' perspectives.A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Cochrane databases for studies published from January 2001-January 2022. Whittemore and Knafl's methodology for data extraction and synthesis was used, and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines were followed. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683).Ten qualitative studies and 7 quantitative studies were included, encompassing 306 patients and 1847 clinicians (1164 nurses). Three nursing roles emerged: (1) relationship-forming, in which nurses described ongoing involvement in patients' rehabilitation and patients described nurses as trusted partners; (2) coordinating, in which nurses described a lack of time and resources and a focus on medical treatment, and patients described nurses as expert coordinators; and (3) follow-up, in which patients described nurses as good communicators and trusted partners in their follow-up, and nurses described their natural interest in patients' rehabilitation outcomes during follow-up.Patients were comfortable with nurses as trusted partners during cancer rehabilitation. Significant barriers such as lack of time, resources, and education about rehabilitation may negatively influence rehabilitation planning, implementation, and monitoring.Clinicians can use the findings to improve cancer rehabilitation with the nurse as a central provider and conduct further research on the coordinating and follow-up roles.As cancer treatment improves, more patients with cancer survive and need help and support to maintain or regain functionality.1,2 Patients often struggle with adverse effects from cancer itself or from treatment. Typically, cancer treatment involves chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, endocrine therapy, or surgery, which may cause adverse physical, psychological, and social effects during treatment or even years after it is completed.2,3 Some adverse effects are mild and temporary; others can be life-threatening or permanent and intrusive in daily life.2 Among 449 Australian survivors of breast, lung, or colorectal cancer, 86% reported at least one adverse event during a 5-month follow-up period; the most common adverse event was fatigue, reported by 85% of survivors. Other adverse events included physical, psychological, and social factors.4Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment. 3 In addition, help and support needs vary widely across cancer patients; involving them and focusing on their individual needs are essential when planning rehabilitation. Nurses are a relevant profession to include in rehabilitation, and rehabilitative nursing care should be an integrated part of all phases of person-centered care.5 Previous studies have demonstrated that nursing interventions from both nurse generalists and specially trained rehabilitation nurses are important components of cancer rehabilitation that can provide beneficial effects for patients.5-7 For example, in a nurse-led randomized clinical trial of rehabilitation outcomes among 161 prostate cancer patients, a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program involving nurses, physicians, and physiotherapists reduced irritative urinary problems and increased physical quality of life.8,9It is important that all involved healthcare professionals understand their roles in planning and implementing multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs.10 Thus, it is essential to precisely identify effective nursing roles to optimize patient outcomes. The purpose of this integrative review was to synthesize existing evidence-based knowledge regarding nurses' participation and roles in cancer rehabilitation, from the perspectives of both nurses and patients. In this review, the definition of rehabilitation is from The White Paper-Rehabilitation in Denmark11:Rehabilitation is a targeted and time-bound collaborative process between a citizen, relatives, and professionals. The purpose is that the citizen who has or is at risk of getting significant limitations in physical, psychological and/or social functioning, achieves an independent and meaningful life. Rehabilitation is based on the citizen's entire life situation and decisions and consists of a coordinated, coherent and knowledge-based effort.An integrative review following the methodology of Whittemore and Knafl12 was selected because it allowed the inclusion of a range of study designs. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683) and follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines.13Background Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment, where focusing on patients' individual needs is essential.To provide an overview of existing evidence about nurses' roles and participation in cancer rehabilitation, based on both nurses' and patients' perspectives.A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Cochrane databases for studies published from January 2001-January 2022. Whittemore and Knafl's methodology for data extraction and synthesis was used, and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines were followed. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683).Ten qualitative studies and 7 quantitative studies were included, encompassing 306 patients and 1847 clinicians (1164 nurses). Three nursing roles emerged: (1) relationship-forming, in which nurses described ongoing involvement in patients' rehabilitation and patients described nurses as trusted partners; (2) coordinating, in which nurses described a lack of time and resources and a focus on medical treatment, and patients described nurses as expert coordinators; and (3) follow-up, in which patients described nurses as good communicators and trusted partners in their follow-up, and nurses described their natural interest in patients' rehabilitation outcomes during follow-up.Patients were comfortable with nurses as trusted partners during cancer rehabilitation. Significant barriers such as lack of time, resources, and education about rehabilitation may negatively influence rehabilitation planning, implementation, and monitoring.Clinicians can use the findings to improve cancer rehabilitation with the nurse as a central provider and conduct further research on the coordinating and follow-up roles.As cancer treatment improves, more patients with cancer survive and need help and support to maintain or regain functionality.1,2 Patients often struggle with adverse effects from cancer itself or from treatment. Typically, cancer treatment involves chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, endocrine therapy, or surgery, which may cause adverse physical, psychological, and social effects during treatment or even years after it is completed.2,3 Some adverse effects are mild and temporary; others can be life-threatening or permanent and intrusive in daily life.2 Among 449 Australian survivors of breast, lung, or colorectal cancer, 86% reported at least one adverse event during a 5-month follow-up period; the most common adverse event was fatigue, reported by 85% of survivors. Other adverse events included physical, psychological, and social factors.4Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment.3 In addition, help and support needs vary widely across cancer patients; involving them and focusing on their individual needs are essential when planning rehabilitation. Nurses are a relevant profession to include in rehabilitation, and rehabilitative nursing care should be an integrated part of all phases of person-centered care.5 Previous studies have demonstrated that nursing interventions from both nurse generalists and specially trained rehabilitation nurses are important components of cancer rehabilitation that can provide beneficial effects for patients.5-7 For example, in a nurse-led randomized clinical trial of rehabilitation outcomes among 161 prostate cancer patients, a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program involving nurses, physicians, and physiotherapists reduced irritative urinary problems and increased physical quality of life.8,9It is important that all involved healthcare professionals understand their roles in planning and implementing multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs.10 Thus, it is essential to precisely identify effective nursing roles to optimize patient outcomes. The purpose of this integrative review was to synthesize existing evidence-based knowledge regarding nurses' participation and roles in cancer rehabilitation, from the perspectives of both nurses and patients. In this review, the definition of rehabilitation is from The White Paper-Rehabilitation in Denmark11:Rehabilitation is a targeted and time-bound collaborative process between a citizen, relatives, and professionals. The purpose is that the citizen who has or is at risk of getting significant limitations in physical, psychological and/or social functioning, achieves an independent and meaningful life. Rehabilitation is based on the citizen's entire life situation and decisions and consists of a coordinated, coherent and knowledge-based effort.An integrative review following the methodology of Whittemore and Knafl12 was selected because it allowed the inclusion of a range of study designs. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683) and follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines.13Background Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment, where focusing on patients' individual needs is essential.To provide an overview of existing evidence about nurses' roles and participation in cancer rehabilitation, based on both nurses' and patients' perspectives.A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Cochrane databases for studies published from January 2001-January 2022. Whittemore and Knafl's methodology for data extraction and synthesis was used, and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines were followed. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683).Ten qualitative studies and 7 quantitative studies were included, encompassing 306 patients and 1847 clinicians (1164 nurses). Three nursing roles emerged: (1) relationship-forming, in which nurses described ongoing involvement in patients' rehabilitation and patients described nurses as trusted partners; (2) coordinating, in which nurses described a lack of time and resources and a focus on medical treatment, and patients described nurses as expert coordinators; and (3) follow-up, in which patients described nurses as good communicators and trusted partners in their follow-up, and nurses described their natural interest in patients' rehabilitation outcomes during follow-up.Patients were comfortable with nurses as trusted partners during cancer rehabilitation. Significant barriers such as lack of time, resources, and education about rehabilitation may negatively influence rehabilitation planning, implementation, and monitoring.Clinicians can use the findings to improve cancer rehabilitation with the nurse as a central provider and conduct further research on the coordinating and follow-up roles.As cancer treatment improves, more patients with cancer survive and need help and support to maintain or regain functionality.1,2 Patients often struggle with adverse effects from cancer itself or from treatment. Typically, cancer treatment involves chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, endocrine therapy, or surgery, which may cause adverse physical, psychological, and social effects during treatment or even years after it is completed.2,3 Some adverse effects are mild and temporary; others can be life-threatening or permanent and intrusive in daily life.2 Among 449 Australian survivors of breast, lung, or colorectal cancer, 86% reported at least one adverse event during a 5-month follow-up period; the most common adverse event was fatigue, reported by 85% of survivors. Other adverse events included physical, psychological, and social factors.4Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment. 3 In addition, help and support needs vary widely across cancer patients; involving them and focusing on their individual needs are essential when planning rehabilitation. Nurses are a relevant profession to include in rehabilitation, and rehabilitative nursing care should be an integrated part of all phases of person-centered care.5 Previous studies have demonstrated that nursing interventions from both nurse generalists and specially trained rehabilitation nurses are important components of cancer rehabilitation that can provide beneficial effects for patients.5-7 For example, in a nurse-led randomized clinical trial of rehabilitation outcomes among 161 prostate cancer patients, a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program involving nurses, physicians, and physiotherapists reduced irritative urinary problems and increased physical quality of life.8,9It is important that all involved healthcare professionals understand their roles in planning and implementing multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs.10 Thus, it is essential to precisely identify effective nursing roles to optimize patient outcomes. The purpose of this integrative review was to synthesize existing evidence-based knowledge regarding nurses' participation and roles in cancer rehabilitation, from the perspectives of both nurses and patients. In this review, the definition of rehabilitation is from The White Paper-Rehabilitation in Denmark11:Rehabilitation is a targeted and time-bound collaborative process between a citizen, relatives, and professionals. The purpose is that the citizen who has or is at risk of getting significant limitations in physical, psychological and/or social functioning, achieves an independent and meaningful life. Rehabilitation is based on the citizen's entire life situation and decisions and consists of a coordinated, coherent and knowledge-based effort.An integrative review following the methodology of Whittemore and Knafl12 was selected because it allowed the inclusion of a range of study designs. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683) and follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines.13Background Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment, where focusing on patients' individual needs is essential.To provide an overview of existing evidence about nurses' roles and participation in cancer rehabilitation, based on both nurses' and patients' perspectives.A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Cochrane databases for studies published from January 2001-January 2022. Whittemore and Knafl's methodology for data extraction and synthesis was used, and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines were followed. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683).Ten qualitative studies and 7 quantitative studies were included, encompassing 306 patients and 1847 clinicians (1164 nurses). Three nursing roles emerged: (1) relationship-forming, in which nurses described ongoing involvement in patients' rehabilitation and patients described nurses as trusted partners; (2) coordinating, in which nurses described a lack of time and resources and a focus on medical treatment, and patients described nurses as expert coordinators; and (3) follow-up, in which patients described nurses as good communicators and trusted partners in their follow-up, and nurses described their natural interest in patients' rehabilitation outcomes during follow-up.Patients were comfortable with nurses as trusted partners during cancer rehabilitation. Significant barriers such as lack of time, resources, and education about rehabilitation may negatively influence rehabilitation planning, implementation, and monitoring.Clinicians can use the findings to improve cancer rehabilitation with the nurse as a central provider and conduct further research on the coordinating and follow-up roles.As cancer treatment improves, more patients with cancer survive and need help and support to maintain or regain functionality.1,2 Patients often struggle with adverse effects from cancer itself or from treatment. Typically, cancer treatment involves chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, endocrine therapy, or surgery, which may cause adverse physical, psychological, and social effects during treatment or even years after it is completed.2,3 Some adverse effects are mild and temporary; others can be life-threatening or permanent and intrusive in daily life.2 Among 449 Australian survivors of breast, lung, or colorectal cancer, 86% reported at least one adverse event during a 5-month follow-up period; the most common adverse event was fatigue, reported by 85% of survivors. Other adverse events included physical, psychological, and social factors.4Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment.3 In addition, help and support needs vary widely across cancer patients; involving them and focusing on their individual needs are essential when planning rehabilitation. Nurses are a relevant profession to include in rehabilitation, and rehabilitative nursing care should be an integrated part of all phases of person-centered care.5 Previous studies have demonstrated that nursing interventions from both nurse generalists and specially trained rehabilitation nurses are important components of cancer rehabilitation that can provide beneficial effects for patients.5-7 For example, in a nurse-led randomized clinical trial of rehabilitation outcomes among 161 prostate cancer patients, a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program involving nurses, physicians, and physiotherapists reduced irritative urinary problems and increased physical quality of life.8,9It is important that all involved healthcare professionals understand their roles in planning and implementing multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs.10 Thus, it is essential to precisely identify effective nursing roles to optimize patient outcomes. The purpose of this integrative review was to synthesize existing evidence-based knowledge regarding nurses' participation and roles in cancer rehabilitation, from the perspectives of both nurses and patients. In this review, the definition of rehabilitation is from The White Paper-Rehabilitation in Denmark11:Rehabilitation is a targeted and time-bound collaborative process between a citizen, relatives, and professionals. The purpose is that the citizen who has or is at risk of getting significant limitations in physical, psychological and/or social functioning, achieves an independent and meaningful life. Rehabilitation is based on the citizen's entire life situation and decisions and consists of a coordinated, coherent and knowledge-based effort.An integrative review following the methodology of Whittemore and Knafl12 was selected because it allowed the inclusion of a range of study designs. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683) and follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines.13Background Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment, where focusing on patients' individual needs is essential.To provide an overview of existing evidence about nurses' roles and participation in cancer rehabilitation, based on both nurses' and patients' perspectives.A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Cochrane databases for studies published from January 2001-January 2022. Whittemore and Knafl's methodology for data extraction and synthesis was used, and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines were followed. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683).Ten qualitative studies and 7 quantitative studies were included, encompassing 306 patients and 1847 clinicians (1164 nurses). Three nursing roles emerged: (1) relationship-forming, in which nurses described ongoing involvement in patients' rehabilitation and patients described nurses as trusted partners; (2) coordinating, in which nurses described a lack of time and resources and a focus on medical treatment, and patients described nurses as expert coordinators; and (3) follow-up, in which patients described nurses as good communicators and trusted partners in their follow-up, and nurses described their natural interest in patients' rehabilitation outcomes during follow-up.Patients were comfortable with nurses as trusted partners during cancer rehabilitation. Significant barriers such as lack of time, resources, and education about rehabilitation may negatively influence rehabilitation planning, implementation, and monitoring.Clinicians can use the findings to improve cancer rehabilitation with the nurse as a central provider and conduct further research on the coordinating and follow-up roles.As cancer treatment improves, more patients with cancer survive and need help and support to maintain or regain functionality.1,2 Patients often struggle with adverse effects from cancer itself or from treatment. Typically, cancer treatment involves chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, endocrine therapy, or surgery, which may cause adverse physical, psychological, and social effects during treatment or even years after it is completed.2,3 Some adverse effects are mild and temporary; others can be life-threatening or permanent and intrusive in daily life.2 Among 449 Australian survivors of breast, lung, or colorectal cancer, 86% reported at least one adverse event during a 5-month follow-up period; the most common adverse event was fatigue, reported by 85% of survivors. Other adverse events included physical, psychological, and social factors.4Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment. 3 In addition, help and support needs vary widely across cancer patients; involving them and focusing on their individual needs are essential when planning rehabilitation. Nurses are a relevant profession to include in rehabilitation, and rehabilitative nursing care should be an integrated part of all phases of person-centered care.5 Previous studies have demonstrated that nursing interventions from both nurse generalists and specially trained rehabilitation nurses are important components of cancer rehabilitation that can provide beneficial effects for patients.5-7 For example, in a nurse-led randomized clinical trial of rehabilitation outcomes among 161 prostate cancer patients, a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program involving nurses, physicians, and physiotherapists reduced irritative urinary problems and increased physical quality of life.8,9It is important that all involved healthcare professionals understand their roles in planning and implementing multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs.10 Thus, it is essential to precisely identify effective nursing roles to optimize patient outcomes. The purpose of this integrative review was to synthesize existing evidence-based knowledge regarding nurses' participation and roles in cancer rehabilitation, from the perspectives of both nurses and patients. In this review, the definition of rehabilitation is from The White Paper-Rehabilitation in Denmark11:Rehabilitation is a targeted and time-bound collaborative process between a citizen, relatives, and professionals. The purpose is that the citizen who has or is at risk of getting significant limitations in physical, psychological and/or social functioning, achieves an independent and meaningful life. Rehabilitation is based on the citizen's entire life situation and decisions and consists of a coordinated, coherent and knowledge-based effort.An integrative review following the methodology of Whittemore and Knafl12 was selected because it allowed the inclusion of a range of study designs. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683) and follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines.13Background Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment, where focusing on patients' individual needs is essential.To provide an overview of existing evidence about nurses' roles and participation in cancer rehabilitation, based on both nurses' and patients' perspectives.A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Cochrane databases for studies published from January 2001-January 2022. Whittemore and Knafl's methodology for data extraction and synthesis was used, and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines were followed. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683).Ten qualitative studies and 7 quantitative studies were included, encompassing 306 patients and 1847 clinicians (1164 nurses). Three nursing roles emerged: (1) relationship-forming, in which nurses described ongoing involvement in patients' rehabilitation and patients described nurses as trusted partners; (2) coordinating, in which nurses described a lack of time and resources and a focus on medical treatment, and patients described nurses as expert coordinators; and (3) follow-up, in which patients described nurses as good communicators and trusted partners in their follow-up, and nurses described their natural interest in patients' rehabilitation outcomes during follow-up.Patients were comfortable with nurses as trusted partners during cancer rehabilitation. Significant barriers such as lack of time, resources, and education about rehabilitation may negatively influence rehabilitation planning, implementation, and monitoring.Clinicians can use the findings to improve cancer rehabilitation with the nurse as a central provider and conduct further research on the coordinating and follow-up roles.As cancer treatment improves, more patients with cancer survive and need help and support to maintain or regain functionality.1,2 Patients often struggle with adverse effects from cancer itself or from treatment. Typically, cancer treatment involves chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, endocrine therapy, or surgery, which may cause adverse physical, psychological, and social effects during treatment or even years after it is completed.2,3 Some adverse effects are mild and temporary; others can be life-threatening or permanent and intrusive in daily life.2 Among 449 Australian survivors of breast, lung, or colorectal cancer, 86% reported at least one adverse event during a 5-month follow-up period; the most common adverse event was fatigue, reported by 85% of survivors. Other adverse events included physical, psychological, and social factors.4Because of cancer survivors' increased need for help and support, cancer rehabilitation should be an essential part of cancer treatment.3 In addition, help and support needs vary widely across cancer patients; involving them and focusing on their individual needs are essential when planning rehabilitation. Nurses are a relevant profession to include in rehabilitation, and rehabilitative nursing care should be an integrated part of all phases of person-centered care.5 Previous studies have demonstrated that nursing interventions from both nurse generalists and specially trained rehabilitation nurses are important components of cancer rehabilitation that can provide beneficial effects for patients.5-7 For example, in a nurse-led randomized clinical trial of rehabilitation outcomes among 161 prostate cancer patients, a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program involving nurses, physicians, and physiotherapists reduced irritative urinary problems and increased physical quality of life.8,9It is important that all involved healthcare professionals understand their roles in planning and implementing multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs.10 Thus, it is essential to precisely identify effective nursing roles to optimize patient outcomes. The purpose of this integrative review was to synthesize existing evidence-based knowledge regarding nurses' participation and roles in cancer rehabilitation, from the perspectives of both nurses and patients. In this review, the definition of rehabilitation is from The White Paper-Rehabilitation in Denmark11:Rehabilitation is a targeted and time-bound collaborative process between a citizen, relatives, and professionals. The purpose is that the citizen who has or is at risk of getting significant limitations in physical, psychological and/or social functioning, achieves an independent and meaningful life. Rehabilitation is based on the citizen's entire life situation and decisions and consists of a coordinated, coherent and knowledge-based effort.An integrative review following the methodology of Whittemore and Knafl12 was selected because it allowed the inclusion of a range of study designs. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223683) and follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines.13