Lifestyle Changes among Patients with Myocardial Infarction

Abstract

Background: Myocardial infarction (MI), also known as a heart attack, occurs when blood flow decreases or stops to a part of the heart, causing damage to the muscle. Aim of the study: To assess life style changes among patients with MI through: assessing demographic data, patients knowledge about the disease, also assessing life style practices among patient with MI. Study Design: A descriptive exploratory research design was utilized. Setting: The study was conducted in the cardiac care unites at Ain shams university hospital. Study Subjects: A purposive sample of 100 patients with MI was included in the study. Data Collection Tools: Patients’ structured interviewing questionnaire, Patients Level of Knowledge Questionnaire & Lifestyle Practices Questionnaire. Results: This study revealed that 53% of the studied patients had correct knowledge about definition of the disease and its causes. Also, 72% of them had unsatisfactory level of knowledge about myocardial infarction. Regarding to total physical lifestyle practices 70% of the studied patients have unhealthy physical lifestyle practices. Regarding to psychological state 62% of the studied patients always felt bad tempered and 65% of them were stressed. Regarding to social status 58% of the studied patients always have lack of motivation to think about the future.Conclusion Based on the findings of this study it can be concluded that near three quarters of the studied patients had un-satisfactory level of knowleadge about MI and two thirds of them had un-satisfactory level of total knowledge regarding life style changes after MI. Even though the majority of studied patients were commitment to the treatment. This part had answered the first question. Also, three quarters of studied patients had un-healthy life style practices.. Recommendations: Include rehabilitation program must held for patients with MI to meet the needs (therapeutic regiment, follow up, exercise and dietary information after MI) and Coping strategies must be delivered for patients with MI about life style changes.