Cogitare Enfermagem (Sep 2011)

THE MEANING OF THE WOUND TO SUFFERERS OF CHRONIC ULCERS

  • Maristela Oliveira Lara,
  • Assis do Carmo Pereira Júnior,
  • Júlia Silva de Figueiredo Pinto,
  • Nayara Figueiredo Vieira,
  • Patrícia Wichr

DOI
https://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v16i3.20178
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 16, no. 3
pp. 471 – 477

Abstract

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This descriptive study has a qualitative approach and aims to understand the meaning of the wound for patients with chronic ulcers. Data collection was carried out between January and May 2010, by means of individual interview with five patients and checking the medical records of patients attended during the period 2008 – 2010 in a clinic unit. Analysis of the data was via thematic content analysis, which permitted the identification of the categories of outstanding sensations, daily routine, the chronic wound and the emotional impact. The results demonstrate that having a chronic ulcer means living with pain, prejudice, dependency on others for the carrying out of activities of daily living, worries, fears, and anxiety over the prognosis. The study hopes to orientate health professionals as to the principle needs of this clientele in order to elaborate individualized strategies for patients and cares to manage the experiences they confront.

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