On becoming dependent on home mechanical ventilation.

• AIM: The aim of this paper is to illuminate meanings of becoming dependent on home mechanical ventilator treatment. BACKGROUND: People suffering from chronic alveolar hypoventilation and requiring home mechanical ventilation represent a small but increasing group in society, and are some of the most vulnerable individuals with chronic disabilities. METHOD: Thirteen people about to begin ventilator treatment at home were interviewed. Data were tape-recorded and analysed according to a phenomenological-hermeneutic method. FINDINGS: Findings revealed two contrasting meanings of being in the process of becoming dependent on a ventilator, interpreted as getting breath or holding breath. This interpretation is presented in two composite stories. CONCLUSIONS: The findings imply possibilities and deficiencies in meeting patients' existential needs, such as helping them to breathe spiritually by supporting them as they get their breath after such a life-changing event as becoming dependent on a ventilator.

Keyword

Adaptation; Psychological

Aged

Aged; 80 and over

Attitude to Health

Caregivers/*psychology

Female

Home Nursing/methods

Humans

Male

Middle Aged

Narration

Respiration Disorders/*psychology/rehabilitation

Respiration; Artificial/nursing/*psychology

Sweden/epidemiology

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)