RESUMO
Subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) is a life-threatening illness that affects people suddenly and without warning. Previous research has estimated that only 7% of SAH survivors suffer physical deficits (Stegan and Freckmann, 1991), whereas two-thirds of those classed as having made a good recovery actually experience a range of debilitating cognitive or emotional difficulties (Bindschaedler et al, 1997); Buchanan et al, 2000). At Hope Hospitals, a structures system was set up to help support the survivors of SAH through follow-up via the neurovascular team providing patients with information, guidance and early intervention including screening for potential cognitive and emotional difficulties and fast-track referral to neuropsychology services. Behavioural indices demonstrated that patients experienced a range of difficulties in everyday functioning such as problems that prevent a return to work and excessive fatigue, among others. Although this innovative system does address follow-up need, improvements could be made to ensure that all patients receive an equitable service.
Assuntos
Assistência ao Convalescente/organização & administração , Serviços Hospitalares de Assistência Domiciliar/organização & administração , Equipe de Assistência ao Paciente/organização & administração , Alta do Paciente , Hemorragia Subaracnóidea/complicações , Hemorragia Subaracnóidea/reabilitação , Adulto , Atitude Frente a Saúde , Feminino , Humanos , Masculino , Programas de Rastreamento/organização & administração , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Modelos Organizacionais , Avaliação das Necessidades , Neuropsicologia , Objetivos Organizacionais , Alta do Paciente/normas , Educação de Pacientes como Assunto/organização & administração , Avaliação de Programas e Projetos de Saúde , Recuperação de Função Fisiológica , Encaminhamento e Consulta/organização & administração , Índice de Gravidade de Doença , Hemorragia Subaracnóidea/psicologia , Inquéritos e Questionários , Sobreviventes , Gestão da Qualidade TotalRESUMO
Healthcare professionals generally accept that a good recovery following subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) equates to one where there is an absence of physical deficit. There does not appear to be a general acceptance of the impact of the less obvious invisible or psychological difficulties. Therefore, this study aimed to illuminate the experience of recovery from SAH. Using a qualitative methodology, eight participants were interviewed using a semi-structured approach. Individual data were handed to the participant for the purpose of confirming the accuracy of the summary made by the author. Data were then analysed for similar and contrasting themes. As a result, the study offers an insight into how common psychological difficulties may impact on a person's ability to make a full and complete recovery following SAH. In conclusion, the main themes generated by the data are presented and recommendations for practice in meeting the needs of participants are offered.
