Stories About Living and Going Through Reconstructive Surgery for Pressure Injuries-A Narrative Study.

Area of Science:

• Reconstructive surgery
• Patient experience
• Pressure injury management

Background:

• Pressure injuries (PIs) are debilitating, affecting adult patients.
• Ischial, sacral, and trochanteric PIs often require complex reconstructive surgery.
• Understanding the patient's perspective is crucial for effective care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experiences of adult patients undergoing reconstructive surgery for pressure injuries.
• To identify key themes and challenges faced by patients during their treatment journey.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative narrative methodology was employed.
• In-depth interviews were conducted with five adult patients.
• Transcripts were analyzed using Riessman's structural and thematic methods.

Main Results:

• Three dominant themes emerged: 'The wound—that changes life,' 'Time—it's my life passing by,' and 'Surgery—a fast track back to life.'
• Surgery was highlighted as a critical factor in accelerating PI healing.
• Patient empowerment through involvement in care and information sharing was emphasized.

Conclusions:

• Reconstructive surgery plays a pivotal role in improving healing times for pressure injuries.
• Empowering patients by involving them in care decisions and providing clear information is essential.
• Maintaining patient hope is a key outcome of supportive and informative care strategies.