Current research status of lung cancer symptom clusters in China: a bibliometric analysis

Abstract

Objective To analyze the literature of lung cancer symptom clusters in China and understand the development status and existing problems of lung cancer symptom research, so as to provide evidences for clinical practice and nursing research. Methods The related literatures of lung cancer symptom clusters published in CNKI, Wanfang Database and VIP Database were searched until October 31st, 2017. The year of publication, the literature periodical distribution, first author institution information, research and design methods, tools and analysis methods, research content were analyzed. Results 20 articles met the inclusion criteria, in which there were 12 cross-sectional studies, 3 longitudinal studies, 2 tools development studies, and 3 reviews. The Chinese Version of Anderson's Symptom Assessment Scale and factor analysis were mainly used to determine and analyze the symptoms clusters. Emotional symptom clusters and fatigue symptom clusters were common symptom clusters of lung cancer patients. The symptom clusters had a negative correlation with the quality of life of lung cancer patients. Conclusions The symptom clusters are a new field in cancer management research. Cancer symptom management is a key direction of nursing work. Nurses should pay attention to the assessment of symptom clusters of lung cancer patients and formulate the corresponding symptom management strategies according to the influencing factors. Key words: Lung neoplasms; Bibliometric; Symptom clusters