Online health information-seeking behavior during the preoperative period among patients with pancreatic tumors and caregivers in China: A qualitative study

Objective To describe online health information-seeking behavior during the preoperative period among patients with pancreatic tumors scheduled for pancreatectomy and caregivers in China, and to identify implications for structured information support. Methods This qualitative descriptive study was conducted from October to December 2025 in the pancreatic surgery department of a tertiary cancer center in Shanghai, China. Maximum-variation sampling was used to recruit 20 participants (8 patients and 12 caregivers), who were interviewed individually rather than as matched dyads. Individual semistructured interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using directed content analysis. The Technology Acceptance Model served as a sensitizing framework while allowing themes beyond the model to emerge. Results Six themes were identified: (1) platform differentiation and complementary use; (2) structural barriers to accessing online health information; (3) use of online information to address cognitive, emotional, and practical needs; (4) credibility appraisal and verification strategies; (5) individual and contextual influences on information seeking; and (6) expectations for institution-led online information services. Ten participants reported intermittent large language model use, mainly to interpret examination reports. Caregivers more often described leading multiplatform searches, although group-level comparisons could not assess within-family interactions. Conclusions Patients and caregivers used multiple platforms to address preoperative information needs but encountered fragmented content, limited personalization, and credibility concerns. Structured, plain-language support led by healthcare institutions and oncology nurses may help patients and caregivers evaluate online information and obtain individualized clinical guidance.