Addison’s Disease and Adrenal Crisis: A Phenomenological Study of the Patient Experience

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the lived experiences and issues central to patients with Addison’s disease when they are hospitalised due to an adrenal crisis. Interpretive phenomenology was used to explore and understand the experiences of six participants with a diagnosis of Addison’s disease who had experienced one or more adrenal crises. Their shared experiences were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis. Three key themes arose from the analysis that explained participants’ experiences: responding, adjusting, and learning. The ‘Addison’s and adrenal crisis patient experience model’ was developed to illustrate how responding, adjusting, and learning impact the patient experience. To support future patients with Addison’s disease, this inquiry recommends education for healthcare practitioners in primary care and secondary services, particularly medical practitioners, nurse practitioners, and nurses who are likely to to aid treatment of adrenal crises. The development of a support group for people living with Addison’s disease to be able to connect and share experiences, was suggested by the participants. This in conjunction with education programmes may prevent adrenal crises and hospitalisations. The development of a clinical guideline is recommended to best support and instil confidence for healthcare practitioners, their patients and families.