Patients' suggestions about how to make life at home easier when dependent on ventilator treatment--a secondary analysis

Background: While quantitative research has provided valuable information, studies presenting patients' experiences have been lacking in the field of knowledge of home mechanical ventilation. The aim of this study was, therefore, to present patient views and suggestions about how to improve home ventilator care and treatment.

Method: Data in the present study comprise 35 qualitative research interviews collected for a primary project carried out in the years 2002-2005 and now analysed using qualitative content analysis, the most established method for secondary analysis.

Results: The results are presented as six categories: the start-up process, to attach to oneself and the ventilator, to experience home as a shelter, to seek knowledge and understanding, to build up confidence in technology and the need to have people to relate to and depend on. The article presents a brief summary of patients' ideas and requests to healthcare providers and manufacturers involved in home ventilator treatment.

Conclusions: The patients' perspectives and experiences include much useful knowledge of interest for nursing and medical professional practices. More attention needs to be given to these experiences in both home ventilator treatment and research. It is also of great importance for nurses and researchers to encourage manufacturers to develop beautiful and user-friendly design in their products, suitable for 'home use' and not just in hospitals.