Different views on hepatic encephalopathy: patients, relatives and nurses

Abstract

This study aimed to explore how patients with liver cirrhosis experienced overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE), how patients' close relatives perceived having a relative with HE and how nurses described the challenges related to caring for patients with HE. The study was based on semi-structured interviews with eight patients, eight relatives and six nurses. The collected data were analysed according to Malterud's systematic text condensation. The analysis process identified four themes (loss, anxiety, dependence and isolation) for patients, five themes (powerlessness, taking control, support, on guard and information) for relatives and four themes (unpredictable nature, becoming familiar with patients, protecting oneself and doing right) for nurses. The findings reveal new perspectives on HE and can be said to provide an important contribution to gaining a deeper understanding of the experience and impact of HE.