Sestrinski glasnik, Vol. 29 No. 1, 2024.
Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.11608/sgnj.29.1.2
Psychological aspects of undress in medical procedures: analysis of patients' emotional experiences and the significance of dignity
Valentina Ješić
orcid.org/0000-0001-7947-5233
; Zavod za anesteziologiju, intenzivnu medicinu i liječenje boli, KBC Sestre milosrdnice, Vinogradska cesta 29, 10 000 Zagreb, Hrvatska
Antonija Adamović
; Klinika za pedijatriju, Odjel za pedijatrijsku intenzivnu medicinu, KBC Zagreb, Ul. Mije Kišpatića 12, 10 000 Zagreb, Hrvatska
Sabina Babić
; Zavod za anesteziologiju, intenzivnu medicinu i liječenje boli, KBC Sestre milosrdnice, Vinogradska cesta 29, 10 000 Zagreb, Hrvatska
Nikolina Vratan
; Zavod za anesteziologiju, intenzivnu medicinu i liječenje boli, KBC Sestre milosrdnice, Vinogradska cesta 29, 10 000 Zagreb, Hrvatska
Abstract
Introduction
In modern medicine, the issue of undressing or exposing the body during surgical procedures has become a crucial topic, eliciting complex emotional responses from patients. The emotional aspects related to privacy, dignity, and autonomy require a deeper understanding to shape practices that ensure both medical effectiveness and the emotional well-being of patients.
Methods
The research was conducted through an online survey to gather experiences from individuals who had undergone surgical procedures. A total of 200 participants took part, including 141 women and 59 men. The study covered questions about emotional state, privacy, feelings of shame, dignity respect, and attitudes toward preparation and communication with medical staff.
Results
Research results regarding patients' emotional states before surgical procedures show that 58% express concern, 24% feel secure, and 11% of them show indifference. A total of 55% of respondents experience a high degree of shame during preparations for the surgical procedure. After the procedure, 50% of patients express a sense of shame, 24% feel anxiety and 7% of them experience relief. Evaluation of privacy during preparations shows that 55% of patients experience a low level of privacy. Patients assess communication about privacy before the surgical procedure diversely, with 28% finding it clear, while 35% of them did not perceive communication on the subject. Patients' main suggestions for improving privacy include increased use of screens (32%) and additional education for medical staff on maintaining privacy (28%).
Conclusion
The research emphasizes the importance of social support and consistent patient information to enhance their preparation and understanding of emotional challenges. These steps lay the groundwork for adapting medical practices to preserve patients' emotional well-being, simultaneously strengthening trust and security in the treatment process.
Keywords
exposure; privacy; dignity; emotional aspects; nurse
Hrčak ID:
316030
URI
Publication date:
15.4.2024.
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