Health Disease Transition in the Person with Acute Myocardial Infartion: Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: the AMI is the leading cause of death in the world. lt still causes significant changes in the quality of life, in self-care, in family life, in social and professional life and it also causes high morbidity. Objectives: understanding the meaning that people attach to AMI and to the fact of being hospitalized in a Coronary lntensive Care Unit; ldentifying the concerns and needs of these people; Understanding which experiences concerning the preparation for homecoming; Understanding the changes caused by AMI in these people's lives. Methodology: qualitative study of phenomenological approach using the analysis model proposed by Giorgi. Eight patients who underwent cardiac catheterization after AMI were interviewed between January and May 2015, an intentional sample was used, and the interview was conducted at least three months after the procedure. Results: three themes emerge regarding lived experiences: of AMI, namely symptoms, feelings of shock and fear of death; of hospitalization that was lived with limitations such as lack of information, immobilization in bed and limitation on the number of visits and on the other hand, the appreciation of health professionals, namely the speed of action, the competence and transmitted safety; of hospital discharge. Conclusion: the AMI is a crucial event in a life, with all the participants referring significant change, particularly in risk behaviour modification, which means a transition process.