PERCEPTIONS OF NURSES AND PATIENTS REGARDING POST-CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS GRAFT

Abstract

Background: Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) is a critical surgical intervention for patients with coronary artery disease, requiring extensive postoperative care and education to prevent complications and ensure optimal recovery. Adequate patient education before discharge significantly influences adherence to treatment, self-care practices, and long-term health outcomes. However, discrepancies often exist between the perceived learning needs of patients and the educational priorities of healthcare providers, highlighting the necessity of evaluating these perspectives to enhance patient-centered care.

Objective: This study aimed to assess and compare the perceived learning needs of post-CABG patients and nurses to develop a structured educational approach that addresses patient-specific concerns before hospital discharge.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Peshawar Institute of Cardiology and the Cardiac Rehabilitation Center (CRC) at Hayatabad Medical Complex. A total of 180 participants, including 90 post-CABG patients and 90 registered nurses, were enrolled using non-probability convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Modified Cardiac Patients Learning Needs Inventory (MCPLNI) questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and the chi-square test were applied using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) to analyze the responses.

Results: Patients ranked chest and lower limb wound care (4.3 ± 0.516), dietary information (4.3 ± 1.328), and postoperative complications (4.3 ± 1.823) as their highest learning priorities, whereas nurses placed greater emphasis on wound care (4.2 ± 0.824), medication management (4.0 ± 0.514), and dietary guidance (4.0 ± 0.591). The domain of "Introduction to the Cardiac Unit" was perceived as moderately important by patients (3.55 ± 0.713). Differences in ranking highlight a gap between patient and nurse perspectives on educational needs.

Conclusion: The findings indicate a disparity between patient and nurse perceptions of post-CABG educational needs, emphasizing the necessity of incorporating patient preferences into discharge planning. Structured educational programs tailored to patient concerns can enhance postoperative recovery and reduce complications.