Date of Award
Spring 1980
Document Type
Thesis - Restricted
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Nursing
Abstract
Coping behaviors of a toddler hospitalized for surgical repair of a ventricular septal defect were identified during the sixteen days postoperatively. Coping was defined as any way of dealing with a challenging situation. Data were collected in the form of process recordings by the nurse researcher during patient care. Content analysis was used to categorize the data into three distinct phases: Phase I or the Immediate Postoperative Phase; Phase II or the Usual Recovery Phase; Phase III or the Extended Hospitalization Phase. Within each phase of time postoperatively, behaviors were grouped into three categories; Participation in Procedures and Activities of Daily Living, Interaction with the Environment, and Body Appearance and Movement. Coping Behaviors progressed from withdrawal and regression during Phase I, to increasing resistance to procedures and participation in hospital routines, increasing verbal communication, and increasing mobility observed during Phase II, and to a greater extent, during Phase Ill. As the subject's physical condition improved, active coping was observed along with the subject's returning autonomy.
Recommended Citation
Mitchell, Cynthia J., "Coping Behaviors of a Toddler Hospitalized for Surgical Repair of a Ventricular Septal Defect" (1980). Master's Theses (1922-2009) Access restricted to Marquette Campus. 3580.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/theses/3580