Factors Related to Person-Centered Care for Older Patients With Cancer and Dementia in Designated Cancer Hospitals

Abstract

Background Person-centered care (PCC) should be promoted for patients with cancer and dementia who are likely to be hindered from pursuing a meaningful life owing to their will not being reflected in the cancer treatment process. Objective This study aimed to clarify the factors related to nurses’ practice of PCC for older patients with cancer and dementia in designated cancer hospitals. Methods An online cross-sectional survey was administered to nurses working at designated cancer hospitals in Japan. The survey items included demographic data and factors assumed to be related to nursing practice and practice of PCC. Results A multiple regression analysis indicated that the factors related to the practice of PCC were attitude toward patients with dementia (β = 0.264, P < .001), holding conferences (β = 0.255, P < .001), knowledge about cancer nursing (β = 0.168, P < .001), knowledge about dementia (β = 0.128, P = .003), and participation in dementia care training (β = 0.088, P = .032). Conclusions Nurses’ practice of PCC may not be sufficient to provide personalized care tailored to patients’ cognitive function. The factors related to PCC are attitude toward patients with dementia, holding conferences, knowledge about cancer and dementia, and dementia care training. Implications for Practice To promote PCC for patients with cancer and dementia, nurses should learn about these conditions with an interest in patients and collaborate with other professionals. Future studies should use cluster sampling and focus on the extent of cancer or dementia symptoms.