Coping after trans-femoral amputation due to trauma or tumour--a phenomenological approach.

• Purpose: To describe, by use of a phenomenological approach, how relatively young trans-femoral amputees experienced their amputation and their coping strategies in the acute phase and over time. Method: Eleven trans-femoral amputees, median age 33.5 years, were interviewed. The amputation was caused by tumour, motorcycle accidents or work-related traumas. Amputation was made in median 7.5 years before the interview. The informants were community dwelling and managed well indoors. One had a half disablement pension and all the others were working or studying full time. The interviews were tape-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Results: Two themes emerged. In the first theme 'Experiences of the amputation' denial and avoidance were the coping strategies mainly used. In the second theme 'Coping strategies to relate to a new norm' the informants used downward comparison, positive comparison and repression. Only one informant indicated a full acceptance of his situation. Conclusion: Relatively young, trans-femoral amputees within this sample, have not reached the acceptance level, though a long time has passed since the amputation. They might have benefited from professional support and guidance during the rehabilitation process in order to improve coping strategies to relate to a new norm.

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Annan medicin och hälsovetenskap -- Övrig annan medicin och hälsovetenskap (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Other Medical and Health Sciences -- Other Medical and Health Sciences not elsewhere specified (hsv//eng)

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