Postoperative information needs of limb salvage patients with severe upper extremity trauma: A descriptive qualitative study.

Abstract

The disability and rehabilitation challenges resulting from severe upper extremity trauma impose significant burdens on individuals, families, and society, profoundly impacting patients' quality of life. This study aims to elucidate the information needs of patients undergoing limb salvage following severe upper extremity trauma through qualitative interviews, providing a foundation for the development of intervention strategies and mobile information support solutions. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview framework based on Roy's Adaptation Model. Twenty-three patients who underwent limb salvage for severe upper extremity trauma were recruited. The interview transcripts were analyzed through a phenomenological approach. The analysis, informed by the accessibility of medical knowledge, identified three themes and 9 subthemes: (1) Information needs for surgical option selection; (2) Information needs for rehabilitation nursing; (3) Psychosocial support needs. Healthcare providers must pay attention to patients' post-operative information needs, recognize the importance of multi-domain information support, and provide tailored information solutions and interventions to enhance patients' well-being, facilitate post-traumatic growth, and restore social function.