From reaching the end of the road to a new lighter life – People's experiences of undergoing gastric bypass surgery

SummaryObjectivesIt is limited research that focuses on people's experiences from prior to surgery to the postoperative period after a gastric bypass. The aim of this retrospective study was to describe people's experiences of undergoing gastric bypass surgery.MethodA qualitative approach was used. Interviews with ten participants were subjected to qualitative content analysis.ResultsThe analysis of the interviews resulted in one theme: from reaching the end of the road to a new lighter life. Prior to surgery participants described a sense of inferiority and that they were not able to ‘take any more’. Shortly after surgery participants felt both vulnerable and safe in the unknown environment and expressed needs of orientation and to have the staff close. Despite information prior to surgery it was difficult to imagine ones’ situation after homecoming, thus it was worth it so far.ConclusionThe care given in the acute postoperative phase for people who undergo gastric bypass surgery, should aim to provide predictability and management based on individual needs. Being treated with respect, receiving closeness, and that the information received prior to surgery complies with what then happens may facilitate postoperative recovery after a gastric bypass surgery.