Gains and losses of vascular surgery patients

Understanding the gains and losses experienced by the patient and his family aids in assessing the psychologic sequela of peripheral vascular surgery. Placing the patients' individual responses into the categories of: function, self-directiveness, self-definition, and future orientation offers a way to conceptualize the meaning of the illness to the patient. Factors such as physical mobility and integrity, self-concept and body image greatly influence the adaption process. Conceptually, these elements provide a framework upon which to base nursing intervention. Careful observation, skillful interviewing, and interpersonal support are appropriate nursing considerations when caring for the patient with peripheral vascular disease. The goal of adaption is a successful reintegration of the whole person,which comes from an acceptance of both gains and losses experienced in surviving peripheral vascular surgery.