The lived experience of patient prudence in health care

Abstract

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to describe the lived experience of patient prudence in health care. Prudence has previously been defined as good judgement in setting realistic personal goals and using personal resources to achieve those goals. Audiotaped interviews were conducted with 10 hospitalized adults for whom health care providers had previously recommended life style changes for health reasons. Data were analysed using Colaizzi's method. Seventy-seven significant statements were identified and, from their formulated meanings, seven themes emerged that were integrated into a description of the fundamental structure of prudence. From the patient perspective, prudence in health care is a dynamic phenomenon that involves achieving well-being and self-perpetuation within the context of the patient's world of competing values and is experienced with emotions that range from harmony to fear and depression.

Patients’ existential situation prior to colorectal surgery

“…By encouraging patients to talk about their experiences in the here and now, nurses may enhance their understanding of patients' lived situations (Skott 2001(Skott , 2004. On the basis of this, nurses are then better able to provide the support that patients require (Lindwall et al 2001, Boughton 2002, Edvardsson et al 2003 and in this way patients' needs are reaffirmed (Lamb & Stempel 1994, Larrabe et al 1998, Olsson et al 2002, Paulson et al 2002. The role of the nurse should therefore be emphasized to show how much support they are able to provide for patients.…”

Discrepancies between patients and professionals in the assessment of patient needs: a quantitative study of Norwegian mental health care

“…As indicated, the health workers' main priority may be for patients to get well. However, for some patients personal health may not be the most highly valued life goal, or it might be too difficult to achieve (Larrabee et al 1998). Close monitoring and interventions may lead to success measured on parameters like symptom reduction and discharge.…”

A Experiência Vivenciada por Idosos em suas Visitas a um Shopping Center: Proposição de um Modelo Teórico

“…Para a quantidade, segundo a literatura especializada, há indicação de um número mínimo de 6 pesquisados (Wertz & Greenbert, 1985), 7 (Partis, 2003), 8 (Miller, 2003, 10 (Lanabee, Bolden, & Kright, 1998), ou mesmo 12 pesquisados (Paavilainen & Astedt-Kinki, 1997). Foram, portanto, realizadas 10 entrevistas com idosos do sexo masculino e feminino, com idade entre 65 e 78 anos.…”