An insight into the preoperative experiences of Ghanaian general surgical patients
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Date
2014
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
SAGE Publications
Abstract
The unknown outcome of surgery has always been a source of anxiety for
patients and their relatives. However, the experiences of Ghanaian surgical
patients have not been adequately explored. This study sought to have an
in-depth exploration of the preoperative experiences of Ghanaian general
surgical patients to inform effective preoperative care. The study employed
an ethnographic design and was conducted at two hospitals in Accra. Thirteen
general surgical patients were purposively recruited and interviewed. Data
analysis occurred concurrently and themes that emerged included reaction
to impending surgery with subthemes of inappropriate disclosure, fear of
death, readiness for surgery, and effect of waiting in the theatre. Also, the
theme information gap had subthemes of preoperative care, expectations
at the theatre, and undue delays. The study emphasized the need for health
professionals to provide effective education to the public and patients, on
surgery and its effects, to curb negative perceptions about surgery.
Description
Keywords
Preoperative care, Presurgery experience, General surgery, Ethnography
Citation
Aziato, L. & Adejumo, O. (2013). An insight into the pre-operative experiences of Ghanaian general surgical patients. Clinical Nursing Research, 23(2): 171– 187