Introduction: Amputation is defined as the surgical removal of all or part of a limb due to a traumatic injury or a chronic disease, most commonly diabetes or peripheral artery disease (PAD). Highly prevalent consequences of amputation are the chronic aches and pain, skin problems, wound infection, muscle contractures and risk of falls. Amputation affects the person’s quality of life and presents a major health burden on the families, society, and on medical services as well. Also significant are the psychological and emotional effects of losing a limb. Purpose: The thesis aims to answer the two research questions inquiring into the post-amputation emotional responses and the importance of supportive role of health professionals. Methods: For the purpose of the thesis, a literature review of the relevant professional and scientific literary sources was performed. The search was conducted in the data bases Pubmed, CINAHL and ScienceDirect. The inclusion criteria for research were the time of publication (after 2007), purpose of the review, keywords relevance, primary scientific and professional sources. Results: The literature review encompasses 12 scientific and professional articles. It was established that the initial response to amputation was one of despair, a severe sense of self-collapse, something almost unbearable. The emotions experienced by grieving patients were a shock, denial, anger, bargaining, depression anxiety, guilt, and acceptance. The loss of a lower limb has a significant impact on the quality of life and emotional imbalance, especially in men. Sexual functioning of amputees is also affected. The role of different sources of support is of utmost importance to alleviate this life changing experience. The therapeutic education should become an integral part of rehabilitation process. A multidisciplinary team, including mental health professionals, is ideal for comprehensive healthcare. Discussion and conclusion: The implications of a limb loss are multifold. It affects the patient’s abilities of physical functions and alters their self-perception and self-esteem. This life-altering event can lead to isolation, social withdrawal and can result in different degrees of psychological trauma. The altered body image therefore challenges not only psychosocial adaptation but has a negative impact also on emotional and psychological wellbeing. The amputees should therefore be provided with a strong social support by their family, friends, and community members. Results of the study confirm that there is a strong and positive correlation between social support and the patients’ overall quality of life. Multidisciplinary holistic approach is advisable in order to timely detect and target the patient’s needs and preferences.
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