Perceived bioethical issues in cancer rehabilitation: a qualitative study among Italian physiotherapists

Bertoni, Gianluca; Battista, Simone; Conti, Valentina; Testa, Marco; Patuzzo Manzati, Sara

Abstract

Introduction: Literature on bioethics in physiotherapy, particularly in cancer management, is limited. This study explores the perceived bioethical issues in cancer rehabilitation by Italian physiotherapists.

Participants: Thirty-one physiotherapists (Age: 42 ± 10.5 years; 20 women, 11 men) with expertise in cancer rehabilitation were purposefully selected.

Data Collection: Six online focus groups were conducted, guided by a focus group guide based on existing literature and refined by experts in cancer rehabilitation and bioethics.

Data Analysis: Sessions were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s ‘Reflexive Thematic Analysis’.

Results: Four primary themes emerged: 1) Challenges of (Non)-Disclosure in Diagnosis and Prognosis – ethical difficulties around withholding diagnosis or prognosis information; 2) Balancing Hope and Realism in Patient and Caregiver Expectations – navigating hope versus realistic rehabilitation goals; 3) Weighing Efficacy and Safety in Cancer Rehabilitation – balancing ­treatment outcomes with patient safety; 4) Decisions on Withdrawing Treatment – ethical considerations in discontinuing treatment.

Discussion: These themes highlight common ethical dilemmas faced by physiotherapists in cancer rehabilitation, mirroring broader healthcare challenges. Addressing them requires a nuanced understanding of ethical principles within the cancer rehabilitation context.

Conclusions: The study provides insights into the bioethical issues in cancer rehabilitation, stressing the need for a patient-centered approach to navigate these challenges effectively.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jan 20, 2025
• Publication Date: Feb 13, 2025
• Deposit Date: Feb 17, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 17, 2025
• Journal: Archives of Physiotherapy
• Electronic ISSN: 2057-0082
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 15
• Issue: 1
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.33393/aop.2025.3299