A Study to Determine Readmitted Cardiac Patients' Knowledge

摘要

An exploratory study to determine the understanding that cardiac patients have of their self care needs was undertaken. The patient population had a history of heart disease and had been readmitted to the hospital for the same reason. Twenty-five male patients were included in the study and were seen with seventy-two hours after readmission for purpose of the study. The information was obtained by face to face interviews using a questionnaire as a guide in getting the information. It was constructed to procure general information about the patient an understanding of medication, diet, activity limitations, and general hygiene. The findings indicated that the majority of patients have a 'poor' or 'fair' understanding of their self care needs. Conclusions drawn prohibit the formulation of any generalizations, but it did indicate a need for planned teaching programs for the patients based on their self care needs and for follow up care after discharge from the hospital.