The dilemma and needs of self-management among patients with recurrent hypertriglyceridemic acute pancreatitis: A qualitative study

Background In China, the incidence of acute pancreatitis caused by hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) has risen year by year, and has now become the second most common cause of the disease. Hypertriglyceridemic acute pancreatitis (HTG-AP) is more serious and has a higher mortality rate than other types of pancreatitis, such as biliary factors or alcoholic pancreatitis.Therefore, how to prevent the recurrence of HTG-AP has become the focus of research.Current research shows that the key to preventing the recurrence of the disease lies in the patient's self-management at home.However, patients face many difficulties in the process of achieving self-management. Objective Through the design of semi-structured interviews, we deeply explored the subjective experience of HTG-AP patients on the recurrence of the disease and elaborated on the difficulties they faced. This provides a reference basis for the formulation of self-management intervention plans that meet the actual needs of patients. Methods This study adopts qualitative research design. Through the objective sampling method, 25 patients with recurrent HTG-AP in a third-class hospital in Shandong Province were selected as research subjects. Use the Colaizzi seven-step analysis method to sort out and analyze the interview data, and report the research results according to the COREQ standard. Results The study identified five core themes: (1) Inadequate disease awareness; (2) Challenges in behavioural management; (3) Psychological adaptation difficulties; (4) Support system constraints; (5) Self-management Support Needs Conclusion By analyzing the dilemma and needs of HTG-AP patients in self-management, we can accurately grasp the specific details of their home management, so as to provide more targeted guidance for clinical practice. This helps patients establish personalized health management programs, enhance self-management ability, effectively prevent recurrence and improve the quality of life.