Psychology in the hospital context: Experiences of patients with non-communicable chronic diseases

Abstract

Abstract Objective To identify the factors involved in the experience of Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases in patients of a hospital institution, based on electronic medical records documented by the psychology service. Method A documental-qualitative-exploratory study, carried out with 69 participants. The data were submitted to an open model content analysis with pairing strategy. Results Four categories were created: Diagnosis assimilation and adaptation to treatment; Death: fear and longing; Symptoms of anxiety and depression; Acceptance of the disease and hope. Conclusion The study underscores the importance of understanding the unique coping strategies and individual experiences of patients facing pain and suffering resulting from chronic diseases. Qualified listening was crucial in this process, enabling the understanding of what is normative and what is pathological. However, further investigations regarding this theme should be promoted with medical records covering other aspects and categories not included in this study.

Keywords

• Chronic disease
• Health psychology
• Psychology, medical