SURVIVING AFTER A STROKE ACCIDENT: from the perspective of existential phenomenology
Stroke, Rehabilitation, Rehabilitation Nursing.
This study aimed to unveil the meanings attributed to the experience of individuals who survived a stroke and live with its consequences. It employed a qualitative approach, drawing on the theoretical and methodological framework of existential phenomenology by Viktor Frankl. The study involved 10 patients who had suffered a stroke and were treated at the General Hospital of the State of Alagoas, in Maceió. It was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Federal University of Alagoas, CAAE 68868223.4.0000.5013, in accordance with the ethical principles of Resolution No. 466/12 and No. 510/16 of the National Health Council. Interviews took place from August 2023 to March 2024. Open-ended interviews were conducted, guided by the overarching question: "Tell me about your experience of having had a stroke?" "Now, please share your experience throughout the entire process of your illness and what meanings you attribute to this experience?" The analysis of the information was grounded in the assumptions of Viktor Frankl's existential phenomenology, yielding three thematic categories: Inner freedom in facing the stroke; Will to find meaning in surviving with stroke; Meaning of life in surviving stroke. It was concluded that during the experiences of Being immersed in the post-stroke world, they presented meanings and meanings about their limitations presented as sequelae, while they envision a meaning of life with rehabilitation and the return of daily activities.