Evaluation of a WeChat-based life review programme for cancer patients: A quasi-experimental study

Aim To evaluate the feasibility and effects of the WeChat-based life review programme on anxiety, depression, self-transcendence, meaning in life and hope among cancer patients. Background Life review is effective in improving the psychospiritual well-being of palliative patients. However, traditional life review programmes are limitedly applied in clinical practice. Design A non-concurrent controlled quasi-experimental design. Methods Ninety-two cancer patients were recruited from April 2017 - February 2018, with 44 patients in the control group receiving routine care and 48 in the experimental group receiving a 6-week WeChat-based life review programme plus routine care. Compliance with the programme, difficulty in participation and satisfaction with the programme were used to explore its feasibility. Anxiety, depression, self-transcendence, meaning in life and hope were measured at baseline and immediately after the programme. Results All experimental participants who completed the programme used the WeChat platform; 39 participants had no difficulties in operating the platform and 40 were satisfied with the programme. Statistically significant effects were identified on anxiety, depression and self-transcendence. An increase in the levels of meaning in life and hope was observed in the experimental group after the programme. Conclusion and impact The innovative WeChat-based life review programme is an effective non-pharmacological intervention in improving psychospiritual well-being of community-dwelling cancer patients. It could be integrated into transitional care for cancer patients. Future research with rigorous design is necessary to test the effects online life reviews among cancer patients. Trial registration This study was registered on the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Registration No: ChiCTR-IOR-17011998).