Symptoms Experienced, Challenges Faced, and Satisfaction with Nursing Care of Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study was to assess symptoms experienced, challenges faced, and satisfaction with nursing care among patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) admitted in selected hospital.

Methods: This was a descriptive study. Data were collected from sixty patients with AMI. Structured interview was used to obtain data regarding symptoms and challenges. Self-reported Likert Scale was used to collect data regarding satisfaction with nursing care. Data were analyzed quantitatively in terms of percentage, logistic regression, and Z–scores.

Results: Symptoms experienced by patients: Most common symptoms experienced were chest pain (65%), sweating (68%), breathlessness (47%), fatigue (42%), indigestion (15%), dizziness (22%), and anxiety (68%). Sweating (B = 3.542), vomiting (B = 26.452), headache (B = 3.47), and anxiety (B = 0.584) were most common symptoms associated with chest pain. Challenges faced by patients: Symptom interpretation: Only 37% thought their symptoms to be as heart attack. Decision-making: About 48% of the participants decided to approach private clinic first. Transport issues – only 2% used ambulance to reach hospital. Satisfaction of patients with nursing care received: Highest satisfaction for: empathetic attitude (70.22%), pain management (76.76%), and skill in nursing procedures (73.89%). Lowest satisfaction for: Clear explanation during procedures (43.63%) and health education (46.18%).

Conclusion: The study reveals that symptoms experienced by AMI patients varied from each other. Challenges faced by patients were mainly difficulty in symptom interpretation, decision making and inappropriate mode of transport. Patient satisfaction with nursing care was good except for: Lack of clear explanation during procedures and health education, which needs improvement.