Patients' experience of advanced wound treatment-a qualitative study.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Each patient experiences wound treatment differently, and it is important to enhance the knowledge of the impact of the treatment to be able to individualize patient care. METHODS: This descriptive qualitative study aims to describe the experience of patients with wounds treated with advanced moist wound therapy (AMWT) and negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT). Data were collected from 15 diaries written by patients during their treatment, and analyzed with content analysis. RESULTS: The results identified an overall theme of "threat to normality," and 3 subcategories including "impact on daily life," "manageability," and "powerlessness." CONCLUSION: While there were many similarities in the descriptions of the patients in the 2 groups, there also were unique features for each treatment group. For patients treated with AMWT, the main concern was pain. For patients treated with NPWT, the main concern was the optimal functioning of the machine. Patients undergoing wound treatment have different focuses, concerns, and needs related to treatment modality. It is important for health care personnel to carry this in mind to be able to individualize patient care. .