| Abstract [eng] |
Ruseckaite G. Nurses’ experiences in Caring for Patients with Phantom Limb Pain / Final thesis of Advanced Practice Nursing studies. Supervisor: Assist. Dr. Zita Gierasimovic. Vilnius: Vilnius University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Nursing; 2026. p. 52 Introduction. Considering the high prevalence of phantom pain, its intensity, and its negative impact on quality of life, it is relevant to scientifically investigate the professional experiences of nursing specialists providing care to these patients. Aim of the study – to evaluate nurses’ experiences in caring for patients experiencing phantom pain. Methods. Qualitative research design using semi-structured interviews. Results and conclusions. Nurses caring for patients experiencing phantom pain most often face a high workload, experience a sense of helplessness, and emotional burden, which often transfers into their personal lives. A lack of knowledge regarding phantom pain management was also identified. For pain management, nurses apply both pharmacological and non-pharmacological measures – most commonly administering antiepileptics, providing emotional support, and collaborating with other specialists. In addressing emotional and psychological challenges, nurses most often rely on personal self-regulation strategies such as physical activity or emotional detachment from work, while support from colleagues becomes the main source of emotional support. Recommendations. 1. Continue scientific research on the emotional, psychological, and professional challenges experienced by nurses caring for patients with phantom pain, identifying the factors that most influence nurses’ well-being and their emotional and psychological state. 2. Reduce nurses’ workload by reviewing the ratio of patients to nurses on duty, thereby ensuring an adequate number of staff. Keywords. Phantom imb pain, phantom limb syndrome, nurses’ experiences, nurses’ challenges. |
