AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To investigate patients' experiences of being involved in their care in the emergency department (ED).

BACKGROUND: Previous research shows that when patients experience involvement during care visits, this increased their trust in the care, gave a sense of control and promoted their autonomy.

DESIGN: A qualitative descriptive design with semi-structured interviews, using the "Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research" (COREQ) checklist.

METHODS: Using convenience sampling, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 patients in the ED.

RESULTS: The study identified four categories: attention and inattention; communication and understanding; varying levels of participation; and inefficient and inaccessible care. The results show that patients expected to be treated with respect and to be involved in an open dialogue about their care. Patients' experiences of participation were related to their sense of control.

CONCLUSIONS: Based on the results of the study, the authors found that factors such as dialogue, information, attention and participation affected the patients' involvement during the ED visit. Experiences of involvement and control were linked to patients' experiences of care and of patients as individuals.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: Healthcare providers' awareness of the importance of paying attention to the patient as an individual, and of the need for simple, continuous communication could facilitate patient involvement in own care.