Journey from experiences that left trace to today in patients who underwent coronary artery by-pass graft surgery

Objectives: This study aims to make the experiences of patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery visible and to understand them more deeply. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted through interviews with 10 coronary artery bypass graft patients. Heidegger’s phenomenological approach was used as a method. The data for the study was collected through Demographic Information Form and Semi-Structured Interview Form between November 2019-March 2020. Results: The ages of the participants varied between 53 and 79 and they underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery a minimum of a year ago. The interviews yielded two categories: emotions and experiences about the bypass surgery as “Perioperative period experiences that left a trace” and today’s emotions and experiences as “Now/Nothing is as it was before”. Also, nine subthemes were identified. Conclusion: The Patients’ experiences that leave a trace involved reflections of the culture and faith, and it was obvious that they were inclined to find a new perspective for their changed lives and health. The results show the necessity of incorporating the sociocultural values and beliefs of patients in the care process.