Experiences of Individuals With Liver Cirrhosis: A Qualitative Study

Gastroenterol Nurs. 2015 Jul-Aug;38(4):252-7. doi: 10.1097/SGA.0000000000000122.

Abstract

Liver cirrhosis is one of the main causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Health-related quality of life in cirrhotic patients is affected by the disease's complications. The purpose of this article was to describe the experiences of individuals with liver cirrhosis during critical illness. The aim was to investigate the disease experiences of liver cirrhosis. The authors conducted a phenomenological qualitative study, using a Colaizzi's seven-step method. Ten participants with liver cirrhosis participated in in-depth interviews. The data from this analysis were transformed into 119 codes, 11 subthemes, and 4 main themes including (1) confronting tension, (2) needs, (3) spirituality, and (4) interaction and effective communication. Findings could be used as a basis for information and emotional and social support interventions, as these can be effective in promoting adjustment to complications of cirrhosis by suitable interventions. Adequate adjustment through adaptation leads to successful completion of treatment and improved quality of life.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Iran
  • Liver Cirrhosis / diagnosis*
  • Liver Cirrhosis / nursing*
  • Liver Cirrhosis / psychology*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Needs Assessment
  • Nurse-Patient Relations
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Prognosis
  • Qualitative Research
  • Quality of Life*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Sickness Impact Profile
  • Stress, Psychological