Experiences of patients who underwent robot assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy

Abstract

 The purpose of this study is to analyze the experiences of the patients who underwent Robot Assisted Laparoscopic radical Prostatectomy（RALP）and to clarify their expectation and anxiety about the advanced medicine for prostate cancer. A semi-structured interview was conducted on 8 patients who underwent RALP for prostate cancer. Through the analyses of the records, these findings were obtained. Patients and their families accepted the advanced surgical treatment, with hearing their friends’ experiences and getting information through the internet. They expected its minimally invasiveness, accuracy and high curability. They were satisfied with the earlier recovery from the surgical procedure than their prediction. In the short hospitalization period to build up a relationship of trust with patients, such information from the patients’ point of view will provide important findings to provide high-quality nursing. It is suggested that a hands-on individual consultation and understanding degrees is required.