Impact of Oncology Nursing Interventions on Chemotherapy-Induced Toxicities in Lung Cancer Patients

Background: Chemotherapy-induced toxicities are a significant challenge in lung cancer treatment, leading to reduced treatment adherence, increased hospital readmissions, and lower quality of life. Oncology nursing plays a vital role in managing these toxicities through early assessment, patient education, and supportive care. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a structured oncology nursing intervention on the management of chemotherapy-related toxicities in lung cancer patients. Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed 313 patients with pathologically confirmed lung cancer who received first-line chemotherapy at Hubei Cancer Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, between January 2021 and December 2023. Patients were divided into two groups: the intervention group (n = 148) received comprehensive oncology nursing services, including toxicity education, symptom monitoring via telephone follow-up, early triage of adverse events, and individualized supportive care plans; the control group (n = 165) received standard care. Primary outcomes included the incidence and severity of grade ≥2 chemotherapy toxicities, unscheduled hospital visits, and treatment delays. Secondary outcomes included patient satisfaction and anxiety levels. Results: The intervention group showed a significantly lower incidence of grade ≥2 neutropenia (18.2% vs 30.3%, P = 0.012), chemotherapy-induced nausea/vomiting (24.3% vs 39.4%, P = 0.006), and unplanned emergency visits (9.5% vs 19.4%, P = 0.018). Treatment delays due to unmanaged toxicity were also reduced (12.8% vs 23.0%, P = 0.021). Additionally, the intervention group reported lower anxiety scores (mean STAI: 34.7 vs 41.3, P < 0.001) and higher satisfaction (8.7 vs 7.4, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Structured oncology nursing interventions significantly improve the management of chemotherapy-induced toxicities in lung cancer patients, reducing complications, enhancing treatment continuity, and improving psychological well-being.