Struggling for confirmation--patients' experiences of dissatisfaction with hospital care.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of the study was to illuminate patients' experiences of dissatisfaction with hospital care.


BACKGROUND
During the last decade, interest in measuring patient satisfaction has become an important indicator of the quality of care. Researchers have, however, criticized the concept theoretically and methodologically. Subsequently, researchers have increasingly argued that the focus of attention should shift to explore patient dissatisfaction.


METHODS
A qualitative approach.


METHODS
Narrative interviews were conducted with six people who had experienced dissatisfaction during a hospital care episode. The interview text was analysed using qualitative content analysis.


RESULTS
The results show the patients' struggle for confirmation, the feeling of distrust in health care and what they have been forced to sacrifice because of lack of treatment. A feeling of being a troublesome patient is also apparent. At the same time a positive encounter is described, as well as situations of confirmation from caregivers. The results also show hope and a will to get on with life.


CONCLUSIONS
Dissatisfaction relating to aspects of encounter is a common problem in health care and conceivable causes and possible solutions are discussed from different perspectives. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL:


CONCLUSIONS
Caregivers as well as patients are in need of confirmation. If management were to take notice of and confirm caregivers this could consequently help them to gain the strength and energy necessary to provide care permeated with confirmation. A veritable, trustworthy care can be established through personal presence. To take notice of, confirm and listen to patients, creates opportunities for providing them with a positive experience of human encounter, which in the long run is rewarding from all perspectives.
Eriksson
Ulrika
U
Mid Sweden University, Department of Health Sciences, Ostersund, Sweden. ulrika.eriksson@miun.se
Svedlund
Marianne
M
D000328:Adult; D001242:Assertiveness; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003144:Communication Barriers; D004645:Empathy; D005260:Female; D005639:Frustration; D006167:Guilt; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D007297:Inpatients / Q000523:psychology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D033262:Narration; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D010344:Patient Advocacy; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010564:Personnel, Hospital / Q000523:psychology*; D011209:Power, Psychological; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D036301:Qualitative Research; D011787:Quality of Health Care / Q000592:standards*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013548:Sweden; D035502:Trust