Protecting strategies used by sufferers of catastrophic illnesses and injuries

The purpose of this research was to describe strategies used by sufferers of catastrophic illnesses and injuries. Participants were adult men and women with a variety of serious illnesses and injuries. Qualitative research approaches to data collection and data analysis, using grounded theory methods were employed. Descriptions of the participants indicate that several strategies are used; this discussion focuses on strategies to protect themselves from further suffering. Situations where participants use protecting strategies are identified and described. The findings indicate how care-recipients try to lessen the burden on their care-givers and to protect them from the stress of the sufferer's problems.