Abstract
Objectives: The purpose of this study is to understand the experience of traffic accident patients with serious injury treated with Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM). Methods: This study was conducted on the basis of grounded theory. We recruited 10 participants who had been hospitalized in Dongguk University Bundang Oriental Hospital after traffic accident. Raw data was collected by in-depth interview, and analyzed by using constant comparison. The coding(open-axial-selective) was performed in order to create paradigm and theoretical model, which can explain main theme of this study. Results: Core phenomenon of this study was 'Experiencing TKM treatment as an alternative' and core category was 'Searching for the answer to the management of traffic accident sequela through TKM treatment' Conclusions: For patients with serious injury, 'Experiencing TKM treatment as an alternative' has meaning as the following: First, The absence of accurate radiography and surgical management makes it hard for patients to choose Korean medicine hospital immediately after traffic accident. Second, Effectiveness of TKM treatment should be evaluated in the long term. Third, TKM treatment is superior to Western medicine treatment in managing long-term patients who suffered from serious injury involved in traffic accident. Finally, Cooperative service of the Western medicine and TKM will provide more satisfactory medical care for traffic accident patients.
