The reflective patient: intrapersonal care

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Abstract
To consider the relevance and potential role of patient reflection in their overall healthcare experience. In-depth, unstructured, qualitative interviews were conducted with 19 patients due to have elective orthopaedic surgery. A longitudinal study design was used, covering the period from a few weeks before to approximately three months after surgery. Forty five interviews were conducted in total. The degree to which participants expressed evidence of reflection and the nature of their reflections varied. Much reflection focused on remaining unknowns and lingering queries. Participants seemed to be trying to work towards an acceptable interpretation of their experiences. This interpretation then fed into their experience of, and responses to, their care. Intrapersonal care is suggested as a way of conceptualizing the patient's process of reflection. This complements interpersonal care given by nurses. Intrapersonal care must be well supported to realise its potential therapeutic effect.

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