Lived experience of patients who are victims of motorcycle traffic accidents treated in hospitals in Managua, Nicaragua

Abstract

Introduction: traffic accident victims experience changes ranging from mild to moderate and severe in their daily lives from the moment the event occurs, resulting in an adjustment due to the personal and social/family impact generated. Objetive: the objective of this study was to explore how they construct and make meaning of their reality based on their lived experience.Methodology: a qualitative research study was conducted under the constructivist paradigm with a phenomenological approach, based on Van Manen's hermeneutic phenomenology. The aim was to understand the lived experience of 10 hospitalized patients due to traffic accident injuries, in terms of their Lived Body, Lived Time, Lived Human Relationships, and Lived Space.Results: motorcycles were the vehicles involved in all the accidents. Victims suffer physical and psychological impacts, feeling vulnerable and powerless when confronted with their altered bodies, the limitations they perceive in the moment, and those they fear for the future. Families are also affected psychologically, economically, and in terms of work. Medical attention was directed towards physical and functional aspects.Conclusion: understanding the lived experiences of patients who are victims of traffic accidents allows for the identification of areas for improvement to strengthen prevention measures and comprehensive care for victims and their families. A more holistic approach is needed that includes psychological support for the affected individuals and their families.