How to return? experiences of patients in working age after first Ischaemic stroke: an interpretative phenomenological analysis of patient´s perspective at 12 – 24 months post-stroke

Abstract

Background Limited evidence of young adult patient-reported outcomes and experiences after ischaemic stroke has been conducted. Aim To investigate the meaning of the lived experiences of stroke patients in working age 12–24 months after their first IS. Material and Methods The exploratory qualitative study used an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) design. Nine ischaemic stroke patients (with age ranges from 41 to 50 years) took part in semi-structured qualitative interviews. Results Even with mild residual neurological deficit, IS negatively impacted the quality of life daily and social life. Six subthemes and three interconnected group experiential themes were generated: (i) From confusion to understanding (ii) Triggers for rebuilding; and (iii) Challenges and benefits. Conclusion The study highlights the current gaps and limitations in supporting the needs of stroke patients in working age in long-term post-stroke care. The findings are crucial for healthcare professionals to develop improved age- and mild- impairment-appropriate strategies or tailor self-management interventions for stroke patients of working age. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04839887.

Keywords

• ischaemic stroke
• interpretative phenomenological analysis
• patient experience
• young adult
• working age