Patients' Experience Before Cardiac Surgery During the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular diseases, with their high mortality rates, significantly impact patients' quality of life, contribute to disability, and impose a substantial financial burden on society. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to illuminate patients' experiences before undergoing cardiac surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN: This is a qualitative interview study. METHODS: A purposive sampling technique was employed, with participants recruited from Department Cardiovascular surgery and interviewed to explore their experiences. An inductive thematic analysis was conducted, and reporting adhered to the EQUATOR guideline: COREQ. RESULTS: The study identified numerous challenges faced by patients during the preoperative period. Consequently, two prominent themes emerged from the patients' experiences while awaiting cardiac surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic: the feeling of loneliness and the feeling of losing oneself. CONCLUSIONS: The psychological vulnerability of patients during the perioperative phase, intensified by circumstances such as a pandemic, can lead to emotional and behavioural instability, significantly impacting the patient negatively. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: Prioritising the patient's experience is crucial in fortifying presurgical care. Delving into the nuanced perspectives of patients fosters a comprehensive understanding that transcends conventional approaches. This research underscores the significance of giving prominence to the patient perspective, offering opportunities for healthcare professionals to elevate the standard of patient care. Recognising and addressing the challenges faced by patients awaiting cardiac surgery can contribute to a more holistic and patient-centered approach in clinical practice. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: Patients contributed by sharing their experiences during interviews, providing first-hand insights that are presented in the study results.