Lived-in Experiences of Tuberculosis Patients

Introduction It is an important public health problem. WHO (World Health Organization) estimates that 2 billion people, or a third of the worlds population, are infected with M. tuberculosis and new infections occur at a rate of about one per second. TB patients, in addition to clinical symptoms, has to deal with several physiological, financial and psychological problems. It is also associated with stigma and discriminations in the society. This study was done to explore the lived-in experiences of tuberculosis patients. Aim of the study To explore the lived in experience of tuberculosis patient various dimensions. Methods The research approach adopted was qualitative and the design was phenomenology. purposive sampling technique was used to select a sample size of 15 till data saturation. an in-depth interview was conducted using open ended questions. The audio taped interviews were transcribed, meanings were formulated and emerging themes were identified. Results Six themes emerged which brought outs the fear, emotions and experiences of patients having tuberculosis. Conclusions The study revealed the physical, psychological, social, economical, vocational and spiritual effects of tuberculosis on patients. It has brought out many issues, the main issue was the need for education and awareness programs to make public aware of the disease. The study also concluded that there is a need to plan for addressing the psychological and social needs of tuberculosis patients along with medical treatment.