Patient experience of the process to diagnosis of chronic limb-threatening ischaemia: A qualitative study.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Delays exist at each stage of the chronic limb-threatening ischaemia (CLTI) care pathway, but there is little known about patient factors influencing delay to diagnosis of CLTI. This study explores the experiences and perceptions of patients recently diagnosed with CLTI.

Methods

A qualitative interview study was conducted. Sixteen participants underwent semi-structured interviews. Reflexive thematic analysis was performed on the data, aiming to understand factors which can influence delay in the CLTI care pathway.

Results

Five interrelated themes were developed: CLTI is a devastating condition; Reluctance to ask for help; When we are empowered we get better care; Luck plays a role in the process to diagnosis; and Vascular units can do better, comprising s

SUBMITTER: Atkins E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11633341 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature