Related Experiment Videos
Women's decision making regarding hysterectomy
1Family Nurse Practitioner Program, The College of New Jersey, Ewing, USA. c.lindberg@home.com
Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing : JOGNN
|November 29, 2001
Summary
Women seeking hysterectomy for benign conditions navigate a decision process involving symptom recognition, seeking solutions, managing symptoms, and preparing for surgery. Understanding this journey aids healthcare providers in offering better support.
Area of Science:
- Gynecologic Health
- Surgical Decision-Making
- Qualitative Research
Background:
- Hysterectomy is a common surgical procedure for benign gynecologic conditions.
- Women's experiences and decision-making processes are crucial for understanding treatment choices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the decision-making process of women opting for hysterectomy due to benign diseases or distressing symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative design utilizing grounded theory.
- Semistructured interviews conducted in participants' homes or workplaces.
- Ten premenopausal women who underwent hysterectomy were interviewed.
Main Results:
- Decision-making initiated with recognition of abnormal body changes or bothersome symptoms.
- Four distinct phases identified: 'Seeking Solutions,' 'Holding On,' 'Changing Course,' and 'Taking Charge.'
- 'Seeking Solutions' involved information gathering and treatment attempts; 'Holding On' entailed symptom management and waiting; 'Changing Course' marked a shift towards hysterectomy; 'Taking Charge' involved surgical preparation.
Conclusions:
- Understanding women's hysterectomy decision-making process is vital for nurses to provide effective support.
- Nurses can assist by offering referrals, education, and emotional support.
- Supportive care can improve women's quality of life through symptom management.