A qualitative study on the experience of Intensive Care Unit mechanical ventilation patients during early ambulation

Abstract

Objective To explore the experience of patients with mechanical ventilation in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) during early ambulation, and explore the process of early ambulation from the perspectives of patients. Methods Applying the interview method in qualitative research, in-depth interviews were conducted for 15 conscious patients with artificial airway for mechanical ventilation in ICU of Affiliated Hospital of Ji'ning Medical University from January of 2017 to December of 2018. Colaizzi's 7-step phenomenological data analysis method was used to analyze and sort out the data obtained and get the theme. Results Six themes were summarized: patients worried about the high risk of early ambulation, discomfort caused by early ambulation, lack of correct understanding on the importance of early ambulation and its benefits, early termination of ambulation caused by unacceptable ambulation way, patients hope to be encouraged by medical staff, patients look forward to social support and economic assistance. Conclusions Early ambulation is not a separate experience, but interwoven with the experience of mechanical ventilation in ICU. In the process of early ambulation, patients are eager to get more professional, safe and comprehensive care. Key words: Intensive Care Unit; Respiration, artificial; Early ambulation; Qualitative study