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Patients perspective on endocarditis--an intermezzo in life
Selina Kikkenborg Berg1, Pernille Preisler, Birthe D Pedersen
1Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Unit 2151, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark. Selina@rh.dk
European Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing
|December 18, 2009
Summary
Infective endocarditis patients perceive the illness as a life "intermezzo," marked by sudden, unexplained physical changes and uncertainty. This experience significantly alters their perception of their bodies and selves.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Qualitative Health Research
Background:
- Infective endocarditis (IE) is a severe condition with a 20-25% mortality rate.
- Limited research exists on the lived health experiences of IE patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore and describe the health experiences of patients with infective endocarditis.
- To understand patient perspectives before, during hospitalization, and regarding future health expectations.
Main Methods:
- Conducted qualitative interviews with 10 patients diagnosed with IE (ages 27-75).
- Utilized a three-level analysis approach for transcribed interview data.
Main Results:
- Identified "intermezzo in life" as the overarching concept for the IE experience.
- Key themes include the sudden onset of IE, patient reactions, living with the condition, altered body image, and social distance.
Conclusions:
- Infective endocarditis creates a period of profound uncertainty and incomprehensibility.
- Patients experience significant changes in their perception of their bodies and self during IE.
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