Patients’ perception of quality of life after traumatic brachial plexus injury – a qualitative study

Abstract

Introduction Advancements in reconstructive surgery for traumatic brachial plexus injury explain the need for better rehabilitation programmes. Therefore, an understanding of an individual patient’s perception through their journey of treatment for a traumatic brachial plexus injury is needed. Methods Thirteen patients with traumatic brachial plexus injury were selected using non-probability purposive sampling. Data were collected in the form of in-depth face-to-face interviews in a clinic setting of a tertiary government hospital using an explorative qualitative method. An interview guide comprising open-ended, nondirective semi structured questions was used and data were analyzed using an interpretative phenomenological approach. Results Eleven subthemes under the overarching theme of patient perception were identified. These subthemes illustrate perception of each individual participants’ journey of treatment for traumatic brachial plexus injury. Conclusion Our study following a qualitative approach throws light on the impact of injury and an adult individual’s perception and may thereby help to develop a more comprehensive and holistic approach towards patient care.