Psychology of Amputee Care Flashcards
What are the psychological impacts of traumatic amputation?
Traumatic amputations may have greater psychological impacts due to sudden loss, with patients often younger and fitter. Issues include shock, grief, and adaptation challenges.
How can body image affect healing in amputees?
Greater body dissatisfaction leads to poorer adjustment and slower psychological healing.
What are the potential personal orientations toward amputation?
Amputation can be viewed as a
- challenge,
- punishment,
- weakness,
- strategy,
- loss, or
- value influencing coping responses.
How can amputation be perceived as a ‘challenge’?
When viewed as a challenge, individuals may adopt task-oriented behavior and active adaptation.
What is the impact of viewing amputation as ‘punishment’?
Individuals may feel depressed, anxious, or angry, impacting adjustment.
What personal response is associated with seeing amputation as ‘loss or damage’?
This view can lead to depression, resistance, and hostility toward rehabilitation.
How does perception of social support influence outcomes in amputees?
It predicts pain interference, life satisfaction, and mobility more than actual measured support.
What is the relationship between social connections and mortality?
More social connections are inversely related to mortality, with stronger results observed in men.
How does social support impact morbidity?
Partnered individuals often have better health outcomes, symptom interpretation, and decision-making.
What are the implications of a strong social network for amputees?
It improves symptom interpretation, care-seeking behavior, and adjustment to changes.
What factors influence adjustment to change after amputation?
Greater time since amputation, social support, prosthesis satisfaction, active coping, and optimistic personality.
How do appearance-related beliefs affect adaptation in amputees?
Negative beliefs about appearance can predict poorer adaptation and body image issues.
What psychological issues are common within two years post-amputation?
Higher rates of depression, anxiety, and grief about loss and life changes.
What types of anxiety may amputees experience?
Social anxiety and trauma-related anxiety
What are some key aspects to assess in amputee care?
- life changes
- pain levels
- social support
- lifestyle
- beliefs
- expectations
- mood
How should treatment be tailored for amputees?
Treatment should be individualized, validating their loss and avoiding minimizing statements.
What statements should be avoided when supporting amputees?
‘Look at the positive,’ ‘It could have been worse,’ or ‘I understand how you feel,’ ‘at least you didnt die, lose multiple limbs…’, as these can undermine therapeutic alliance.
Why is validation important in amputee care?
It fosters trust, strengthens the therapeutic alliance, and supports psychological healing.
What is the importance of recognizing natural psychological processes in amputees?
Expecting and supporting these processes helps patients accept their situation and adapt healthily.
How does the perception of support affect therapeutic outcomes?
Positive perception of support improves mood, reduces pain interference, and enhances rehabilitation outcomes.
What are potential career changes for amputees?
Career adjustments may be necessary, leading to feelings of guilt, shame, or loss of identity.
How do interpersonal reactions affect an amputee’s adjustment?
Reactions from others can influence self-image and feelings of acceptance or rejection.
What is the relationship between self-image and adaptation post-amputation?
A strong sense of self-image and positive body perception aid in faster adaptation and better mental health.
How does trauma-related anxiety manifest in amputees?
It can include fear of re-injury, reluctance to use prosthetics, and general anxiety about safety.
