A Concept Analysis of Oral Anticancer Agent Self-management.

backgroundThe rapid development and adoption of oral anticancer agents (OAAs) for cancer management have shifted patients' roles from recipient to owner of their care delivery, assuming their responsibilities for self-managing their OAA treatments at home, while the concept of oral anticancer agent self-management (OAA-SM) has not been well clarified and defined.

objectiveThis study was to clarify the concept of OAA-SM and identify major components, influential factors, and consequences of OAA-SM, as well as propose a representative conceptual model of OAA-SM.

methodsA literature review was conducted concerning the concept and application of OAA-SM. The Walker and Avant method for concept analysis was utilized to guide the examination of OAA-SM.

resultsOAA-SM is a multifaceted and dynamic process that requires continuous adaptation by patients as multiple self-management challenges can emerge throughout OAA treatments. The defining attributes of OAA-SM include OAA adherence, adverse-effect self-management, patient-provider communication, and OAA safe storage, handling, and administration practices. Oral anticancer agent-SM is potentially influenced by a variety of patient-related, OAA-related, and healthcare system factors. Effective OAA-SM is associated with better patient and healthcare outcomes.

conclusionsThe clarification of the concept of OAA-SM and the identification of attributes of OAA-SM and their interrelationships contribute to the body of knowledge in OAA-SM. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: This concept analysis provides the foundation to increase healthcare providers' understanding of patients' needs for OAA-SM support and guides the development of patient-centered interventions to empower and engage patients and their families in effective OAA-SM, and improve patients' quality of life and care.