Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 7, 2026
A Quantitative Sensory Testing Paradigm to Obtain Measures of Pain Processing in Patients Undergoing Breast Cancer Surgery
Published on: January 18, 2018
'How Does Nothing Show Up When I'm in So Much Agony?': A Qualitative Study Exploring Patient Experiences of
Anna Kathryn Taylor1, Daniel Romeu1, Jess Dodd2
1School of Medicine, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
Introduction:
Non-specific abdominal pain is a common and diagnostically challenging presentation in acute care, yet little is known about patient experiences within this setting. This study explores the experiences of patients attending a surgical same-day emergency care (SDEC) unit with non-specific abdominal pain.
Design:
Qualitative descriptive study using inductive thematic analysis.
Methods:
23 adults (aged ≥ 18 years) presenting with acute non-specific abdominal pain to a surgical SDEC in England were purposively sampled. Semi-structured interviews were conducted at least 2 weeks after discharge and thematically analysed inductively, iteratively and collaboratively by a team of psychiatrists, surgeons and a lived experience co-researcher.
Results:
Three themes were identified: (1) The journey to the SDEC-participants described uncertainty and fear about potential diagnoses and varied thresholds for help-seeking, (2) The consultation-while many appreciated rapid access to care, experiences of communication and explanation were mixed, with some feeling dismissed or confused by the absence of a clear diagnosis, and (3) Post-consultation reflections-some felt reassured by normal test results, while others struggled with persistent symptoms, a lack of follow-up, and ongoing uncertainty. Discussions around psychosocial factors were rare.
Conclusions:
Acute non-specific abdominal pain can be distressing for patients, even after attending acute surgical services, particularly when communication is perceived to be unclear and follow-up is inconsistent. A more structured, patient-centred approach, including standardised follow-up, clear explanations and sensitivity to psychosocial factors, could improve experiences and possibly outcomes for this group.
Patient And Public Contribution:
A patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) group, comprising individuals with lived and living experience of persistent physical symptoms, shaped the scope and design of the research and co-produced the interview topic guide. A lived experience representative was actively involved in data analysis, interpretation and manuscript preparation.
More Related Videos
07:20Intraoperative Detection of Subtle Endometriosis: A Novel Paradigm for Detection and Treatment of Pelvic Pain Associated with the Loss of Peritoneal Integrity
Published on: December 21, 2012
14:56An Experimental Paradigm for the Prediction of Post-Operative Pain PPOP
Published on: January 27, 2010
Related Concept Videos
01:28Peptic Ulcer Disease III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Few clinical manifestations differentiate gastric ulcers from duodenal ulcers. Distinctions in the location, timing, and pain relief are crucial for healthcare providers in differentiating between gastric and duodenal ulcers during clinical assessments.
01:29Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
01:22Appendicitis-I: Introduction
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
01:17Assessment of the Gastrointestinal System I: Subjective Data
Health History
The initial step in assessing the GI system is obtaining a comprehensive health history. This includes inquiring about the patient's history or presence of problems...
01:30Acute Pancreatitis II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
01:25Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation
The abdominal examination is a cornerstone of clinical medicine, serving as a critical tool in diagnosing various gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. It involves a systematic approach that includes inspection and auscultation, each with distinct yet complementary roles in assessing the abdomen. This article will delve into these two primary methods healthcare professionals use to examine the abdomen.
Inspection of the Abdomen
The first step in any abdominal examination is inspection....