Can nurses help improve self-care of patients living with atrial fibrillation? A focus group study exploring patients' disease knowledge gaps.

Authors

Tammy Toscos PhD, Mirro Center for Research and InnovationFollow
Amanda Coupe, Parkview HealthFollow
Shauna Wagner, Parkview HealthFollow
Michelle Drouin, Parkview HealthFollow
Amelia Roebuck, Parkview HealthFollow
Carly Daley, Mirro Center for Research and InnovationFollow
Maria D. Carpenter, Parkview HealthFollow
Michael Mirro MD, Parkview HealthFollow

Abstract

Aims: To identify knowledge gaps and preferences for educational material to improve nurse-patient communication and self-care.

Design: Using a mixed-methods design, we conducted focus groups and quantitative surveys.

Methods: We conducted three focus groups with atrial fibrillation (AF) patients and support persons (

Results: Although most participants had adequate health literacy, most reported gaps in AF knowledge. Participants lacked disease-related knowledge and were unsure how to manage health behaviours (e.g. diet and exercise). Few felt they received adequate education from their healthcare provider. Results emphasize the need for consistent information from nursing staff, in lay language, via both electronic and printed means.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-1-2020

Publication Title

Nurs Open

First Page

998

Last Page

1010

Recommended Citation

Toscos, Tammy PhD; Coupe, Amanda; Wagner, Shauna; Drouin, Michelle; Roebuck, Amelia; Daley, Carly; Carpenter, Maria D.; and Mirro, Michael MD, "Can nurses help improve self-care of patients living with atrial fibrillation? A focus group study exploring patients' disease knowledge gaps." (2020). Health Services and Informatics Research. 26.
https://researchrepository.parkviewhealth.org/informatics/26