The lived experience of the diabetic patient undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery

The purpose of the study was to reveal the lived experience of the diabetic patient undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. This research was considered important as diabetes is Australia's fastest growing chronic disease (Australian Diabetes Council, 2010) and the number of CABGs patients who have diabetes is increasing (Dinh, et al. 2008). Two male participants were recruited by a Melbourne cardiac surgeon using purposive sampling and were interviewed using an in-depth interviewing technique. A hermeneutic approach, underpinned by Heidegger's philosophy provided the methodology for the study. Thematic analysis was undertaken and four themes were uncovered: scared and surprised, acceptance of chronic illness, acquiesce and being lucky. These findings form several recommendations for nursing practice, including providing CABG surgical patients with individualised care plans for diabetic management, education for diabetic patients on potential complications from the disease, education on CABG surgery, including pain management and providing support for patient's families.