Development of a psychological management intervention protocol for colorectal cancer patients: a Delphi study on benefit finding

PLoS One. 2025 Apr 16;20(4):e0321396. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0321396. eCollection 2025.

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to develop Benefit Finding intervention protocols for colorectal cancer patients on psychological management in China.

Methods: We created an initial draft of such a protocol through a comprehensive literature review and group discussions. A two-round Delphi study via WeChat correspondence was conducted, with a group of 14 Chinese experts. Experts rated and scored the importance of indicators on a five-point Likert scale.

Results: The response rates for two rounds both were 100%(n=14), with an authority coefficient of 0.86. The mean value assigned to the importance of the items ranged from 4.07 to 5.00, with coefficients of variation between 0.00 and 0.17; the Kendall coefficient was 0.214 (P<0.05). Ultimately, we established an index system comprising 8 primary items, with respective weights of 0.133, 0.131, 0.122, 0.116, 0.129, 0.122, 0.124, and 0.124. Additionally, we identified 25 secondary items and 53 tertiary items.

Conclusion: This protocol demonstrates authenticity, objectivity, and broad applicability, providing a valuable reference for future psychological care and self-management strategies for colorectal cancer patients following surgery.

MeSH terms

  • China
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / psychology
  • Delphi Technique
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Surveys and Questionnaires