This was an ethnographic study. We conducted observations at the ED of a large general teaching hospital. Patients were enrolled in the study on the basis of convenience sampling. We thoroughly analyzed 16 cases in a grounded theory approach, using the constant comparative methods (ie, starting the analysis with the collection of聽data). This approach enabled us to conceptualize the experiences of patients step by step, using the ethnographic data to refine and test the theoretical categories that emerged.
Our data show that patients at the ED continuously and actively labor to deal with their disorder, its consequences, and the situation they are in. Characteristics of these 鈥減atient concerns鈥?indicate a certain trouble, have聽a personal character, impose themselves with a certain urgency, and require patient effort. We have established a聽qualitative taxonomy of 5 categories of patient concerns: anxiety, expectations, care provision, endurance, and recognition.
Diligence for patient concerns enables ED staff to have a fruitful insight into patients' actual experience. It聽offers significant clues to improving relationship building in emergency care practice between patients and health care professionals.