Content analyses of a priori qualitative phantom limb pain descriptions and emerging categories in mid-southerners with limb loss.

PURPOSE

The purposes of this descriptive study were (a) to identify the relative frequencies of a priori categories of phantom limb pain (PLP) quality descriptors reported by Mid-Southerners with limb loss, (b) to analyze their descriptions for emerging categories of PLP, and (c) to identify the relative frequencies of the emerging categories.

DESIGN

This cross-sectional descriptive verbal survey assessed PLP descriptors. A content analyses determined relative frequencies of a priori PLP descriptors as well as emerging categories that were identified.

FINDINGS

The most common a priori PLP quality descriptors reported by 52 amputees with PLP were intermittent, tingling/needles/numb, sharp, cramping, burning, and stabbing. The most common emerging categories reported were pain compared to illness/injury, electrical cyclical, and manipulated/positional.

CONCLUSION

The detailed descriptions of PLP provide insight into the vivid experiences of PLP.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Rehabilitation nurses can use this information with PLP assessment, patient teaching, and counseling.