Implementing integrative nursing for oncology inpatients: a retrospective analysis of project-related routine data from 2021 to 2023

PURPOSE: The study explored the implementation of integrative nursing (IN) interventions in oncology inpatient care within a dedicated project. As part of an IN consultation service, trained integrative nurses delivered external naturopathic, non-pharmacological interventions. The aim of this study was to characterize patients receiving IN interventions and to describe how these interventions are implemented and applied in oncological inpatient care. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed routine project-related data collected at Ulm University Hospital between 2021 and 2023. Recorded variables included patient demographics, clinical characteristics, type and frequency of IN interventions, and immediate patient reaction. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and qualitative data were examined using content analysis. RESULTS: Healthcare professionals requested an IN consultation for 381 patients, of whom 361 (94.8%) agreed to participate. The majority were female (62.3%; n = 225) and between 60 and 69 years of age (33.5%; n = 121). In total, 1910 IN interventions were carried out, with a median of four IN interventions per patient (M = 5.3 ± 4.6; r = 1-30). Most IN interventions targeted the lower limbs (38.7%; n = 740), most frequently using rhythmic embrocation (70.9%; n = 1355) and solum oil (39.6%; n = 757). Immediately after the IN intervention, the most commonly observed patient reactions were relaxation (67.5%; n = 726) and deeper breathing (37.5%; n = 403). CONCLUSION: The high level of acceptance and the continuous increase in utilization suggest that IN was well implemented in clinical practice during the project, with positive short-term reactions from patients. Further intervention studies are needed to provide robust evidence of its efficacy and to support its long-term integration into routine hospital care.