Exploring patients' experiences of nursing care and participation in trauma care following thoracic injury.

INTRODUCTION: Traumatic thoracic injuries constitute a major global health burden, associated with high mortality, severe complications, and complex care needs. The acute and unpredictable nature of trauma care often limits early patient involvement despite the importance of person-centred care for safety and recovery. Although nurses provide crucial technical and holistic support, organisational pressures may hinder psychosocial care. AIM: This study aimed to explore how patients with traumatic thoracic injuries experience nursing care and participation in a trauma care unit. METHODS: Sixteen semi-structured individual interviews with patients who had sustained a traumatic thoracic injury were conducted in a level 1 trauma centre. The data were analysed using thematic analysis and an inductive approach. RESULTS: The main findings revealed that organisational factors and relational aspects directly influenced the delivery and continuity of nursing care. Organisational factors affected the delivery and continuity of care. Relational aspects, such as attention to individual preferences and basic care needs, and recognition of the patient's capability, influenced perceptions of dignity, participation, trust, and safety. CONCLUSION: Organisational factors and relational aspects shape the quality of trauma nursing, relying not only on adequate resources and professional competence, but equally on the relational integrity of everyday clinical encounters.