“Negotiating a new normality” - a longitudinal qualitative exploration of the meaning of living with an open surgical wound

Figures & data

Table I. Example of process of data analysis.

Meaning unit	Condensed meaning unit	Code	Subtheme	Theme
When I looked at it, I understood that this is a part of me, that this looks as it looks; and then you start to think, to process it in your head; and I don’t mean from a medical perspective—where is the infection and is there redness—but in your subconscious, this is on you, this is yours, this is you … You start to be aware that this is really on you and that it will stay for some time, and that you have to accept it. This is how it is.	I understood that this is a part of me … … this is on you, this is yours, this is you … You start to be aware that this is really on you and that it will stay for some time, and that you have to accept it. This is how it is.	Acceptance	Adapting to a new reality	Negotiating a new normality
At the beginning I needed and really appreciated help. My mother helped me a lot, especially by taking care for the older child. Husband helped also, but he was at work during the day.	I needed and appreciated help. My mother helped me a lot … Husband helped also …	Accepting outside support
I looked at the Internet, as I needed information about this “condition”. I am not a professional like you … When you hear the word “gangrene” you are scared, and then you seek information.	I looked at the Internet, as I needed information about this “condition”. … When you hear the word “gangrene” you are scared, and then you seek information.	Seeking information

Data availability statement

The data sets for this study is not open access due to restrictions e.g., their containing information that could compromise the privacy of research participants, but can be made available upon reasonable request to the corresponding author (L.P.) and after the additional ethical approval.