Symptom distress, anxiety, depression, and discharge information needs after peripheral arterial bypass

The purpose of this study was to describe the symptom distress, anxiety, depression, and discharge information needs of patients after peripheral arterial bypass surgery. Patients (n = 38) were interviewed before and after hospital discharge. The symptoms of incisional pain and broken sleep, as measured by Visual Analogue Scales, were the most distressing symptoms experienced before and after discharge. Patients reported low levels of anxiety and depression as measured by the Profile of Mood States. A moderate amount of information, assessed by the Patient Learning Need Scale, was perceived by patients to be important to help manage their care after discharge. The most important information related to the recognition, prevention, and management of complications. The findings contribute to an understanding of discharge information needs after peripheral arterial bypass and emphasizes the importance of patient education to facilitate transition to the home.