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Table 1 Examples of categorisation process

From: Fathers’ experiences of care when their partners suffer from peripartum cardiomyopathy: a qualitative interview study

Unit of analysis

Codes

Sub-category

Main category

You did not get the explanation without asking; what? How? You just need to sit down with a doctor…to go through the disease, causes and treatment plans.

Desire a clear and complete picture of the situation

To be informed/not informed

The professionals could have made a difference

You are desperately searching for each straw that can testify the improvement (in woman´s condition) and when you hear that "you may consider yourself chronically ill because now it has gone so far and you have not shown any improvement"

The way of communication is crucial

Will she die? Be disabled? Will she survive? You need a quick conversation with the doctor to avoid frustration

Several unpleasant thoughts appear in your mind and you need quick information

I think they could have facilitated so I would have been more prepared to help my partner

Understanding the situation facilitates security

To feel secure/ insecure

The doctors said it looks good but a nurse said the women rarely get well from this

Incorrect information creates insecurity

The main problem was the lack of collaboration between different specialties that led to the missing or erroneous drug administration.

Coordination between specialties is necessary to secure patient safety

It almost felt that it was a hassle for the staff at the ward that she was there and I was there too with her

Not feeling welcome created feelings of insecurity

She was very serious and was close to death… It felt safe because she was surrounded by a good team

A whole team of people around her conveyed security

They (neonatal ward) did not ask me as father about anything, then you really had to try to drag their attention.

Had to make great efforts to become a part of own babies’ care

To feel visible/invisible

You accept yourself like a spectator. Then you realize that, ´I'm also a human, not robot, I also have my needs. Talk to me too. I also have own feelings´.

Desire to be visible

At the ward it was strenuous. I had to go out to get my own food even though I was there to take care of the child

Invisible carer

Perhaps they (healthcare professionals) have had targeted action against the couple together. She felt I was not there for her, but I think I supported her. This leaves their marks as well.

Experience of being invisible from the partner

There was both fear but also joy over the new born baby. Everything was up and down, It was very difficult situation.

We had looked forward to having joyous arrival of the baby but it was not as expected

Wish that it had been different

Did not have time to think about your own health. Taking care of two children, work, shopping, school/ kindergarten and making food.

Don´t have time to think about own health. Trying to balance between different priorities

You feel rejected and it was difficult. They didn´t pay attention to whatever you say (about woman not feeling well). In the end you give up. There was no point to nag.

Wish adequate encounter with healthcare professional