Exploration of Symptoms and Psychological Experiences among Lung Cancer Patients during the First Year Following Day Surgery: A Qualitative Study

Objective: This study investigates the symptom experiences and psychological states of patients with lung cancer following day surgery the first year in China. Methods: A qualitative investigation was conducted utilizing face-to-face semi-structured interviews with lung cancer patients during the initial post-operative year. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Colaizzi's seven-step phenomenological methodology. Rigor was ensured through adherence to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist. Results: Participants (n = 14) were recruited from a top-tier hospital in China using purposive sampling methodology between September 2024 and January 2025. The cohort exhibited a mean age of 57.1 ± 8.39 years, with the majority presenting with stage I disease. Thematic analysis of interview data yielded four principal themes characterizing the experiential dimensions: (1) Symptom manifestations and alterations, (2) Uncertainty regarding disease trajectory, (3) Confidence in treatment efficacy and therapeutic concerns, and (4) Support systems and unmet needs. Conclusion: Lung cancer patients exhibit a considerable symptom burden following day surgery. Heightened attention to post-discharge home care for this population is imperative. Clinicians should implement prompt and effective symptom assessments, followed by the integration of targeted symptom management strategies into discharge planning to alleviate post-discharge symptom burden.