Self-determination in surgical patients in five European countries

Objective: To analyze the effects of informational support, desire for behavioral involvement in health decision-making (behavioral involvement), opportunities to make decisions, and independence on subjective health status in surgical patients. A theoretical model of self-determination was applied and tested. Methods: The data were collected by structured questionnaires with a sample of 1,454 surgical patients in five European countries. LISREL analyses were used to test the theoretical causal model of self-determination. Results: Patients' perceptions of informational support received from nursing professionals and their desired involvement in health decision-making affected patients' opportunities to make decisions and further their independence level, which in turn affected patients' subjective health status. Conclusions: Understanding of factors that increase self-determination in patients can help health care professionals to promote patients' well-being.