The lived experience of waiting: a Parse method study

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Qualitative Health Research
• Patient Experience Studies

Background:

• The waiting period for organ transplantation significantly impacts patient well-being and quality of life.
• Understanding the subjective experience of waiting is crucial for developing patient-centered care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the structural components of the lived experience of waiting for a lung transplant.
• To generate novel insights into health and quality of life during the transplant waiting process.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Parse research method, a phenomenological approach.
• Conducted in-depth interviews with 11 individuals awaiting lung transplantation.

Main Results:

• The core finding identified waiting as an 'arduous constraint arising with anticipating the cherished in fortifying engagements'.
• This experience is characterized by intense anticipation, finding solace in social interactions, and engaging in meaningful activities.

Conclusions:

• The findings illuminate the profound challenges and coping mechanisms inherent in the lung transplant waiting experience.
• Results offer valuable knowledge for nursing practice, emphasizing patient-centered approaches and informing future research directions.