See me, teach me, guide me, but it’s up to me! Patients’ experiences of recovery during the acute phase after hip fracture

To explore patients’ experiences of their recovery after hip fracture surgery and the use of Traffic Light System-BasicADL in their rehabilitation process.

Nineteen patients (13 females and 6 males), aged 66–94, were interviewed. A qualitative content analysis method was used for analysis of data.

Two categories were identified: ‘Being seen as a person’ with subcategories; Interaction affects trust and security; Information is key to understanding; and Encouragement is essential to promote activity. And ‘Striving for Independence’, with subcategories; Accepting the situation while trying to remain positive; The greener the better, but it’s up to me; Ask me, I have goals; and Uncertainties concerning future.

The findings of this study mirror clinical reality. There is a continued need for organisations to reflect over existing practise and question routines and procedures. In order to improve services and provide better quality of care, it is essential to acknowledge the patients’ experiences, needs and preferences and make efforts to accommodate these where possible. Health care professionals must recognise that patients with hip fracture are individuals, with varying needs that change across the continuum of recovery.