Nutritional Experiences of Patients Undergoing Total Gastrectomy Surgery: A Qualitative Study.

The aim of this study was to determine the nutritional experiences of patients who underwent total gastrectomy surgery. This qualitative study was conducted using the phenomenological research design. The sample consisted of 18 individuals who underwent total gastrectomy surgery. The research data were collected using the semistructured in-depth interview method. Interviews were conducted and recorded using audio/visual tools during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data analysis was carried out by two researchers according to the hermeneutic phenomenological approach. The nutritional experiences of the informants were organized under three themes, namely, First Feeding Experiences may remain, Gastrointestinal Problems, and Coping Methods. It was determined that individuals face various problems after total gastrectomy, both physical and psychological. They have developed coping methods to deal with the nutritional problems they experience. Development of a patient-specific nutrition program is recommended to support adaptation to new eating habits after total gastrectomy.