Objective To summarize the basic intervention contents and outcome indicators of problem solving therapy for cancer patients, analyze its application effects and existing problems, and provide reference for further standardizing and optimizing problem solving therapy.Methods Following the methodology of scoping review, the relevant studies on problem solving therapy in cancer patients were systematically searched from domestic and foreign databases, such as PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, Embase, CNKI, Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, VIP, China Biomedical Literature Service System database, etc., the search period was from the database inception to March 2024.The articles were screened according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the contents of the included articles were extracted, summarized and analyzed.Results A total of 21 articles were included, consisting of 15 randomized controlled studies, 4 experimental studies, 1 qualitative study and 1 mixed study. Problem solving therapy consisted of 6 steps, 6 to 8 individual psychotherapy sessions, each session lasted 30 to 45 minutes, and continuous intervention for 4 to 18 weeks.Problem solving therapy played positive effects on the physiology, psychology, cognition and quality of life of cancer patients.Conclusion Problem solving therapy is a short and effective method of psychotherapy, which has positive effects on cancer patients, and it is safe and feasible.In the future, it is necessary to develop personalized problem solving therapy intervention programs, carry out large sample, multi-center and high-quality randomized controlled trails, and extend the follow-up time to further confirm the application effect of problem solving therapy in cancer patients.