Patienters upplevelser av sin återhämtning på vårdavdelningen efter att ha genomgått avancerad tumörkirurgi

ABSTRACT Background: Patients that have undergone cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with or without hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) are a patient group with many complex nursing care needs, the recovery process is often long and challenging. However, there is no research on the patients experiences of the recovery on the ward. Aim: The aim was to describe how patients that have undergone CRS with or without HIPEC experiences the postoperative recovery at the ward, and if the nursing care they receive matches their individual needs. Method: A qualitative study with semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven patients on one gynecological- and one surgical ward. Data was analysed with qualitative content analysis. Result: Two categories were identified: A time filled with physical challenges but gradually returning to normal and A roller coaster of thoughts and emotions. The result showed both physical and mental challenges during the recovery process on the ward. The patients described nausea, tiredness and initially difficulties with mobilisation. They also shared feelings of concern, frustration and missing their relatives. The nursing staff had an important role in creating a safe environment during the treatment period by showing support, providing information and offering conversations. Conclusion: The result of the study shows that patients who have undergone CRS with or without HIPEC experiences both physical and mental challenges during the recovery process on the ward. Through support, information and conversations the nursing staff can meet the patient’s individual needs and in that way, optimize the recovery. By ensuring a high level of competence among the nursing staff, the safety of the patients can be guaranteed and good nursing can be carried out.