Knowledge of patients with Peripheral Obstructive Artery Disease: qualitative study

Abstract

This is a descriptive-exploratory study with a qualitative approach aiming to identify the knowledge of the hospitalized patients about peripheral arterial occlusive disease and their needs for homecare. Data collection occurred from October to November 2016, through a semi-structured interview with 13 patients hospitalized for treatment of peripheral occlusive arterial disease in a surgical clinic of a university hospital in southern Brazil. Data analysis was performed through thematic analysis, from which the following categories emerged: Life habits; The understanding of the patient that lives with peripheral occlusive artery disease; The difficulties they face at home and The support network. Data show that patients do not have healthy lifestyles and that they understand the disease as temporary and that it onsets suddenly, therefore not being aware of risk factors and its chronic conditions. They present difficulties in acquiring medicine and performing bandage in the public health network, hence having their relatives as a support network. It is concluded that the patients have little knowledge of their diagnosis, which contributes to the worsening of their health condition.