A Qualitative Study on the Ambiguous Loss Experience of Caregivers of Patients with Advanced Gastrointestinal Tumors

Guided by the theory of ambiguous loss, this study aimed to explore the experiences of ambiguous loss among caregivers of patients with advanced gastrointestinal tumors. Using purposive sampling, 16 caregivers from two tertiary Grade A hospitals in Zhengzhou, Henan Province (July–October 2024) participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed via directed content analysis, revealing three themes and eight subthemes: anticipated loss (uncertain future, suspended time, anticipatory grief), progressive loss (family-social role conflicts, neglected self-experience, hidden grief), and acknowledged loss (coexisting with illness, finding meaning in loss). Nursing professionals should prioritize caregivers' ambiguous loss experiences, establish psychological coping frameworks, and seek multidimensional social support to enhance caregivers' engagement and improve care quality.