Vulnerability is therefore reliant on the
perception of the patient and the amount
of awareness of control that they have in
the circumstances (Rogers 1997). In the
perioperative environment, the loss of
control can compound the patient’s growing
vulnerability (McIntosh & Adams 2011).
Nichiata et al (2008) recognised groups
exposed to aggravation as vulnerable.
Within perioperative practice the
aggravating factors include fear and anxiety
due to impending surgery and anaesthesia.
In addition, distinct groups are considered
vulnerable in their own right: the young,
elderly, women, ethnic minorities, low
income, unemployed, patients with learning
disabilities. This list is not exhaustive.