Recovery: a phenomenon extending beyond discharge.

The purpose of this study was to conceptualize and order theoretically the process of recovery. Intensive telephone interviews were carried out at 2, 4, and 6 weeks postoperatively to elicit descriptions of postdischarge experiences from 25 subjects who had experienced uncomplicated hospitalizations for cholecystectomy surgery. Postdischarge recovery was a process of returning to normal as defined by preillness comparative standards of physical, social, and psychological well-being that progressed sequentially in three phases: passivity, activity resumption, and stabilization. Decisions concerning phase progression were made by integrating physiological and health professional cues with self-imposed and situational pressures. Subjects who perceived negative physical symptoms, especially fatigue, and who were unable to respond to pressures expressed frustration with the recovery process. Implications for nursing practice include providing patients with individualized anticipatory guidance and interventions that build endurance.