Patient perspectives on information needs for amputation secondary to vascular surgery: what, when, why, and how much?

In patients undergoing an amputation secondary to vascular disease, little is known about the timing, mode of delivery, or amount of information needed. The purpose of this study was to explore the perspectives of patients who have undergone a major lower limb amputation as a result of vascular disease, regarding the information healthcare professionals should provide to them during their acute hospital stay. A qualitative study using descriptive methodology was used. Patients were included if they had a major lower limb amputation 1 week to 2 years before the interview. Purposive sampling was used. Sixteen patients participated in a semistructured interview, either face to face or by telephone. Interviews were transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used. Transcripts were coded by two researchers and compared. N-vivo, descriptive and interpretative analyses were used to assess transcribed interviews. Patients stated that there was insufficient information on a variety of topics, including the recovery process, expectations for rehabilitation, and prosthetics. They went on to describe that high pain levels, age, and emotional status affected the delivery of information to them. Patients had different perspectives on timing of information, mode of delivery, and amount of information. An individualized approach to the delivery of information should be considered for patients undergoing major lower limb amputation. Involved healthcare professionals need to take into consideration patient-specific preferences and unique educational needs before the delivery of information. We anticipate that findings from this study will influence the development of an educational program to deliver effective patient centered care in this unique patient population.