Daily life after healing of a venous leg ulcer: A lifeworld phenomenological study

Abstract

Purpose Venous leg ulcer is a recognized condition, affecting people globally. Ulcers mainly affect the elderly and recurrences are not uncommon. There is knowledge about life with venous leg ulcers, but the situation after healing is unexplored. This paper explores and describes meanings of experiences of daily life after healing of a hard-to-heal venous leg ulcer. Methods Lived experiences of 15 individuals with healed hard-to-heal venous leg ulcers generated data for this study. Interviews were recorded for analysis using a reflective lifeworld research approach. An essence emerged, further described by its constituents. Results Memories of a difficult time with leg ulcer were ever present, in a way becoming part of the self. A striving for control in daily life entailed a struggle to do what was best for the own body. After healing, a new normal emerged in daily life, a reality that encompassed the risk for a new ulcer. The body had changed physically, with marks alongside those from ageing, in a life that still went on. Conclusions For those who had healed from a venous leg ulcer, life had changed. Even if they referred to life as normal, it was not the same normal as before.

Experiences of undergoing venous leg ulcer management: A reflective lifeworld research study

“…CF and HT have earlier published material within the field. Furthermore, all four authors have a wish to improve the care for these patients, with one previously published work 13 …”

“…Furthermore, all four authors have a wish to improve the care for these patients, with one previously published work. 13 This study has provided the field with important findings-not only for researchers but also for healthcare staff, students within nursing and patients with ulcers.…”

“…However, we argue that the descriptions of the phenomenon were rich with meaning. Interviews by telephone have been used previously 13 and have been shown to increase the readiness to speak openheartedly 45 without interfering with the depth of the material. 46 We all contributed with our own lifeworlds, and previous experiences as nurses, and researchers.…”

“…9,12 The daunting experience of having an ulcer also has an impact on life after healing: difficult memories remain and life is perceived as restricted. 13 Although venous ulcers can affect anyone, persons of advanced age are at greater risk of developing VLUs. Venous symptoms such as varicose veins and oedemas are signs of venous interference.…”

“…Thus, VLUs are life‐limiting 9,12 . The daunting experience of having an ulcer also has an impact on life after healing: difficult memories remain and life is perceived as restricted 13 …”