Emotion regulation strategies of experienced oncology nurses: a qualitative study

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to elucidate, through qualitative analysis, the cognitive processes by which experienced oncology nurses regulate their emotions when facing anxiety and emotional conflict in communication with patients. Methods: We employed a qualitative exploratory design using semi-structured individual interviews with six certified oncology nurses in Japan. Participants were recruited via snowball sampling and provided written informed consent. Interviews were conducted in Japanese using a pre-tested interview guide; audio data were transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed with the Steps for Coding and Theorization (SCAT) method. Metacognitive theory-distinguishing metacognitive knowledge and metacognitive regulation-guided interpretation of the findings. Results: Analysis of 38 theoretical descriptions yielded two overarching themes: (1) anxiety and conflict in communication with cancer patients, and (2) metacognitive emotion-regulation strategies. The latter comprised two subthemes: (a) patient-oriented cognitive strategies (e.g., linguistic adjustments, trust-building, facilitating patients' self-regulation), and (b) self-oriented cognitive restructuring (e.g., reframing dilemmas, monitoring and modulating one's own emotional responses). These processes reflected deliberate monitoring and regulation of thinking and feelings to sustain constructive engagement with patients. Conclusions: Experienced oncology nurses use metacognition to recognize, interpret, and flexibly regulate emotions in challenging interpersonal situations. Educational implications include integrating structured metacognitive reflection alongside empathy and mindfulness training to cultivate durable, transferable coping skills. Future studies should examine this approach in diverse clinical contexts, include larger and cross-cultural samples, and evaluate longer-term outcomes in nurses' emotional resilience and clinical practice.