Postoperative self-management experiences among patients with aortic dissection: a phenomenological approach

Abstract

Objective

The objective of this study is to examine the postoperative self-management experiences of patients with aortic dissection (AD) through qualitative interviews, providing a foundation for the standardized management of postoperative home care for these patients.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 patients with AD postoperatively, in the cardiac surgery department of a tertiary hospital in Fujian Province between March and May 2020. This qualitative study used phenomenological methods and purposive sampling, with data analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step approach to extract themes.

Results

Based on the interviews, four primary themes related to postoperative self-management challenges were identified: limited disease-related knowledge, inadequate disease management behavior, insufficient communication with healthcare providers, and compromised psychological well-being.

Conclusion

Postoperative self-management among patients with AD presents several challenges. Healthcare professionals should provide targeted interventions tailored to the specific condition and individual differences of the patient in self-management. Such interventions are crucial for enhancing the postoperative self-management abilities of patients with AD, promoting rehabilitation, and enhancing the overall quality of life.