Early Patient Experiences of Primary Above-the-Knee Amputation From Vascular Etiologies: A Phenomenological Study

The aim of this study was to explore the different meanings of the experience of lower-limb amputation due to vascular causes in the time period from the fifth to twelfth week post-amputation. A phenomenological study involving semi-structured interviews was carried out. Data collection took place in a Public Hospital in Spain and included a convenience sample of 20 patients who had undergone amputation. The study highlighted patients' fears related to mobility, pain, dependence, and autonomy. Moreover, patients experience of the rehabilitation process and resources for adaptation were described as well as all the changes related to the social environment. The figure of a nurse was considered essential after amputation by the patients. This study provides a deep understanding of their experiences at the immediate time after amputation considering patients demographical associations and the etiology of the vascular pathology. This could be the starting point to understand patients' immediate needs upon discharge.