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Liu M, Zhang Q, Liu L, Liu W. Enablers and Hindrances of Lifestyle Changes Among Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: A Qualitative Study. J Cardiovasc Nurs 2024; 39:38-48. [PMID: 37955370 DOI: 10.1097/jcn.0000000000001055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) seriously affects the health status and quality of life of affected patients. However, the lifestyle changes recommended by the guidelines for patients are not ideal. Hence, understanding the factors that promote and hinder healthy behavior changes in patients with AF is crucial for self-management. OBJECTIVE The aims of this study were to understand the factors enabling and hindering health behaviors in patients with AF and to provide a reference for promoting health management among these patients. METHODS Using the purposive sampling method, 22 patients with AF admitted to the Cardiac Center of Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, from March 2021 to June 2021 were selected for in-depth face-to-face interviews. The thematic analysis method was used to summarize and refine the themes. RESULTS The following 2 themes and 15 subthemes were eventually extracted by analyzing and summarizing the interview data. The 7 factors facilitating health behaviors in patients with AF were risk perception, outcome expectancy, behavioral intention, action plan, response plan, self-efficacy, and social support. There were 8 hindering factors: personal preferences and habits, specific customary culture, weak self-control, accessibility of exercise conditions, symptom-related distress, cognitive weakness, multiple medication use, and insufficient awareness of condition monitoring. CONCLUSIONS The factors affecting health behaviors in patients with AF are complex, and healthcare providers should reinforce the facilitators of health behaviors in these patients and provide them with targeted interventions against hindering factors. Results can be used to develop health behavior intervention programs for patients with AF.
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Bates RW, Bailey C, Topping AE. 'Out of sync': a qualitative investigation of patients' experiences of atrial fibrillation and perceptions of weight management. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e065995. [PMID: 36343999 PMCID: PMC9644348 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-065995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore ways to enhance the design of risk factor management and weight-loss services for people with overweight/obesity and atrial fibrillation (AF). BACKGROUND AF is the most common cardiac arrhythmia, with serious consequences for health and quality of life. Some evidence indicates weight reduction in people with AF and overweight/obesity may improve symptoms. This population may require additional support with weight management due to factors associated with ageing and health. DESIGN Qualitative investigation based on semi-structured interviews. METHODS 12 adult participants (4 female, 8 male) with diagnosed AF and a current or previous body mass index >27 kg/m2 were recruited at a large tertiary cardiac referral centre in southern England between September 2020 and January 2021. Participants completed quality of life and AF symptom questionnaires using Think-Aloud technique and semi-structured interviews relating to their weight management experiences, needs and preferences. Interviews were audio recorded and analysed thematically using the Capability, Opportunity and Motivation-Behaviour model as a theoretical framework. RESULTS Three main themes were identified. Being out of rhythm explores the psychological and physical impact of AF on weight management; doing the right thing discusses participants' weight management experiences and broaching the subject explores participants' perspectives on weight management conversations with clinicians. CONCLUSIONS There was dissatisfaction with the weight management advice received from healthcare professionals including cardiologists. Participants wanted open, non-judgemental discussion of cardiac health implications of overweight/obesity supported by referral to weight management services. Improved communication including research findings regarding the benefits of weight loss as a factor in AF management might increase motivation to adhere to weight-loss advice in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Wendy Bates
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Cara Bailey
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - A E Topping
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Holmlund L, Hellström Ängerud K, Hörnsten Å, Valham F, Olsson K. Experiences of living with symptomatic atrial fibrillation. Nurs Open 2022; 10:1821-1829. [PMID: 36309946 PMCID: PMC9912440 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.1442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To explore the experiences of living with symptomatic atrial fibrillation. DESIGN This study, with a descriptive qualitative design, was performed using semi-structured individual interviews. METHOD Six women and nine men with symptomatic atrial fibrillation were included. The transcribed interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis. The COREQ checklist was followed. RESULTS The analysis resulted in a main theme, namely balancing life and included the themes striving for illness control, becoming a receiver or an active partner in care and dealing with changed self-image. The participants strived to understand their illness, prevent attacks and manage anxiety. Some of the participants were not involved in decision-making, were uninformed about self-care measures, reported a lack of continuity in care and felt that the doctors focused on information about the medical part of care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Fredrik Valham
- Department of Public Health and Clinical MedicineUmeå UniversityUmeåSweden
| | - Karin Olsson
- Department of Public Health and Clinical MedicineUmeå UniversityUmeåSweden
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Walfridsson U, Walfridsson H, Middeldorp ME, Sanders P, Årestedt K. Validation of the English version of the arrhythmia-specific questionnaire in tachycardia and arrhythmia (ASTA): a Rasch evaluation study. J Patient Rep Outcomes 2022; 6:90. [PMID: 36018513 PMCID: PMC9418394 DOI: 10.1186/s41687-022-00493-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Patient-reported outcome measures are important in person-centered care, providing valuable information about patients’ experiences. Disease-specific questionnaires add important information about a certain disease in comparison to generic questionnaires. Questionnaires need to be validated in the targeted population to achieve reliable data. The purpose with the study was to use Rasch measurement theory to evaluate the English version of the ASTA questionnaire.
Methods
The Rasch model theory was used to evaluate global and item fit, targeting, response category functioning, local independency, unidimensionality, differential item functioning (DIF) for gender and age, and reliability.
Results
The study included 202 patients undergoing DC conversion or catheter ablation at the Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders at the University of Adelaide, Australia. The mean age was 67 years and 30% were women. Most patients had atrial fibrillation (n = 179), others had atrial flutter or had a combination. One of nine items demonstrated unsatisfactory model fit in the ASTA Symptom scale and two of 13 in the ASTA Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) scale. Unidimensionality was supported for both scales. The targeting was acceptable except for the lower end of the scales. Both scales showed reversed thresholds for the response categories “quite a lot” and “a lot” (eight of ASTA symptoms and 12 of ASTA HRQoL items). Some problems with local dependency were detected in both scales. The reliability (person separation index) was satisfactory: 0.75 for the ASTA symptom scale and 0.77 for the ASTA HRQoL scale. No DIF for gender and age were detected.
Conclusions
The English version of the ASTA questionnaire demonstrated satisfactory measurement properties according to the Rasch model. However, it needs to be evaluated in patients with other arrhythmias. The response categories should be considered as well as DIF in further validation. The ASTA questionnaire can be used for assessments of symptoms and HRQoL between groups of different ages and genders in patients with arrhythmia.
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Ding Y, Liu C, Xu H, Wang M, Zhang J, Gu J, Cui Y, Wei L, Zhang Y. Effect of social support on illness perception in patients with atrial fibrillation during "Blanking Period": Mediating role of sense of mastery. Nurs Open 2022; 10:115-122. [PMID: 35855521 PMCID: PMC9748061 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.1284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To explore whether sense of mastery can mediate the relationship between social support and illness perception in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who were at the "Blanking Period." DESIGN A cross-sectional design. METHODS 405 patients with AF who were at the "Blanking Period" in the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University were recruited; they completed a set of questionnaires, including the Perceived Social Support Scale, the Personal Mastery Scale and the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire. RESULTS Social support and sense of mastery were both adversely connected to illness perception. The indirect effect of social support on illness perception through sense of mastery was negative, accounting for 86.04% of the total effect. CONCLUSION During the "Blanking Period," better social support and sense of mastery contribute to a positive illness perception of AF patients. Social support also can influence patients' illness perception indirectly via the mediator of sense of mastery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun‐Mei Ding
- School of NursingQingdao UniversityQingdaoChina,Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityQingdaoChina
| | | | - Hong‐Xuan Xu
- Department of Health SciencesLund UniversityLundSweden
| | - Mao‐Jing Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityQingdaoChina
| | | | - Jia‐Yun Gu
- School of NursingQingdao UniversityQingdaoChina
| | - Yan Cui
- Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityQingdaoChina
| | - Lili Wei
- Department of NursingAffiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityQingdaoChina
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of NursingAffiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityQingdaoChina
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Ding YM, Pan YS, Wang MJ, Cao LH, Xu HX, Cui Y. Factors influencing kinesiophobia during the "blanking period" after radiofrequency catheter ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation by the fear-avoidance model. Int J Cardiol 2022:S0167-5273(22)00920-2. [PMID: 35716943 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2022.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The influencing factors of kinesiophobia (fear of movement) in patients with atrial fibrillation(AF)during the post-operative "Blanking Period" are not known. The aims were to investigate the status of kinesiophobia in patients with AF during the post-operative "Blanking Period", then further describe the occurrence and analyze the influencing factors of patients' kinesiophobia by the Fear-Avoidance Model. MATERIALS AND METHODS In total,400 patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, during the post-operative "Blanking Period" from the selected hospital were included in this study. The Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia Heart (TSK-SV Heart), the Self-efficacy for Exercise (SEE) scale, and the Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale (GLFS) were used to assess kinesiophobia, exercise self-efficacy, and physical function. The study adopted a cross-sectional design. RESULTS The score of kinesiophobia during the "Blanking Period" after operation in patients with atrial fibrillation was (44.06 ± 10.77), and the rate of high kinesiophobia was 71.61%.Logistic regression results showed that age, education, household monthly income, resting heart rate, EHRA symptom classification, exercise self-efficacy, and physical function influenced the kinesiophobia of patients during the post-operative "Blanking Period"(p<0.05, p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS Kinesiophobia is common in patients with atrial fibrillation during the postoperative "Blanking Period", and the fear of movement is related to age, education, household monthly income, resting heart rate, EHRA symptom classification, exercise self-efficacy, and physical function. Clinical and nursing staff should pay close attention to the psychological problems in the post-operation "Blanking Period" of exercise rehabilitation in patients with atrial fibrillation, make timely interventions to reduce patients' fear of movement, and improve patients' compliance with exercise rehabilitation.
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Borland M, Bergfeldt L, Cider Å, Rosenkvist A, Jakobsson M, Olsson K, Lundwall A, Andersson L, Nordeman L. Effects of 3 months of detraining following cardiac rehabilitation in patients with atrial fibrillation. Eur Rev Aging Phys Act 2022; 19:14. [PMID: 35488206 PMCID: PMC9052551 DOI: 10.1186/s11556-022-00293-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Atrial fibrillation negatively impacts physical fitness and health-related quality of life. We recently showed that 3 months of physiotherapist-led exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation improves physical fitness and muscle function in elderly patients with permanent atrial fibrillation and concomitant diseases. Little is, however, known about the consequences for physical fitness, physical activity level, and health-related quality of life after ending the rehabilitation period. Methods Prospective 3 months follow-up study of 38 patients out of 40 eligible (10 women) who, as part of a randomized controlled trial, had completed a 3 months physiotherapist-led cardiac rehabilitation resulting in improved physical fitness,. In the current study, the participants were instructed to refrain from exercise for 3 months after completion of the rehabilitation period. Primary outcome measure was physical fitness measured as highest achieved workload using an exercise tolerance test. Secondary outcome measures were muscle function (muscle endurance tests), physical activity level (questionnaire and accelerometer), and health-related quality of life, (Short Form-36), as in the preceding intervention study. We used the Wilcoxon Signed Rank test to analyse differences between the end of rehabilitation and at follow-up. The effect size was determined using Cohen’s d . Results Exercise capacity and exercise time significantly decresead between end of rehabilitation and at follow-up (p < .0001 for both). A significant reduction in shoulder flexion repetitions (p = .006) was observed as well as reduced health-related quality of life in the Short Form-36 dimensions Physical Function (p = .042), Mental Health (p = .030), and Mental Component Score (p = .035). There were, however, no changes regarding objective and subjective physical activity measurements. Conclusion In older patients with permanent atrial fibrillation, previously achieved improvements from physiotherapist-led exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation in physical fitness and muscle function were lost, and health-related quality of life was impaired after ending the rehabilitation period. A strategy for conserving improvements after a rehabilitation period is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Borland
- Närhälsan Sörhaga Rehabilitation Center, Alingsås, Sweden. .,Region Västra Götaland, Research and Development Primary Health Care, Research and Development Center Södra Älvsborg, Borås Västra Götaland, Sweden. .,Department of Health and Rehabilitation/Physiotherapy, Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. .,SV Hospital Group rehabilitation Center, Alingsås Hospital, 441 83, Alingsås, Sweden.
| | - Lennart Bergfeldt
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Cardiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Åsa Cider
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation/Physiotherapy, Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Marika Jakobsson
- Department of Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kristin Olsson
- Department of Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Adam Lundwall
- Habo Health Center, Bra Liv Health Center, Habo, Jönköping, Sweden
| | | | - Lena Nordeman
- Region Västra Götaland, Research and Development Primary Health Care, Research and Development Center Södra Älvsborg, Borås Västra Götaland, Sweden.,Department of Health and Rehabilitation/Physiotherapy, Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Pavlovic N, Chierchia GB, Velagic V, Hermida JS, Healey S, Arena G, Badenco N, Meyer C, Chen J, Iacopino S, Anselme F, Dekker L, Scazzuso F, Packer DL, de Asmundis C, Pitschner HF, Piazza FD, Kaplon RE, Kuniss M. Initial rhythm control with cryoballoon ablation vs drug therapy: Impact on quality of life and symptoms. Am Heart J 2021; 242:103-114. [PMID: 34508694 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryoballoon ablation (CBA) as a first-line rhythm control strategy is superior to antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) for preventing atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence; the impact of first-line CBA on quality of life (QoL) and symptoms has not been well characterized. METHODS Patients aged 18 to 75 with symptomatic paroxysmal AF naïve to rhythm control therapy were randomized (1:1) to CBA (Arctic Front Advance, Medtronic) or AAD (Class I or III). Symptoms and QoL were assessed at baseline, 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months using the EHRA classification and Atrial Fibrillation Effect on QualiTy-of-Life (AFEQT) and SF-36v2 questionnaires. Symptomatic palpitations were evaluated via patient diary. RESULTS Overall, 107 patients were randomized to CBA and 111 to AAD; crossovers occurred in 9%. Larger improvements in the AFEQT summary, subscale and treatment satisfaction scores were observed at 12 months with CBA vs AAD (all P <0.05). At 12 months, the mean adjusted difference in the AFEQT summary score was 9.9 points higher in the CBA group (95% CI: 5.5 -14.2, P <0.001). Clinically important improvements in the SF-36 physical and mental component scores were observed at 12 months in both groups, with no significant between group differences at this timepoint. In the CBA vs AAD group, larger improvements in EHRA class were observed at 6, 9 and 12 months (P <0.05) and the incidence rate of symptomatic palpitations was lower (4.6 vs 15.2 days/year post-blanking; IRR: 0.30, P <0.001). CONCLUSIONS In patients with symptomatic AF, first-line CBA was superior to AAD for improving AF-specific QoL and symptoms. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT01803438.
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Wang J, Wang Q, Bao Z, Peng Y, Liu S, Yu T, Wang L, Yang G, Gao M, Sun G. The Combined Effects of Patient Activation and Relational Aspects on the Quality of Life in Atrial Fibrillation Patients. Front Psychol 2021; 12:761149. [PMID: 34867661 PMCID: PMC8636326 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.761149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to explore the influence of patient activation (PA) and relational aspects on the quality of life (QoL) in patients with Atrial Fibrillation (AF) for developing measures to improve PA and QoL. Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken in 2021 among 190 AF patients in Nanjing, China. Research instruments included a self-designed social-demographic characteristics scale, the Patient Activation Measure (PAM), the Atrial Fibrillation Effect on Quality of Life (AFEQT). The data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS 25.0. Spearman correlation analysis, multiple linear regression analysis, and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to assess the association accordingly. Results: The average AFEQT score for the 190 AF patients was 69.32 ± 14.52. The distribution of activation Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4, were where 4.7, 34.2, 47.4, and 13.7%, respectively. The multiple linear regression analysis revealed that patient activation, work status, and cardiac rehabilitation of AF patients predicted AF-related QoL (β = 0.270, -0.205, and 0.183, respectively; all P < 0.05). The influences of PA level on subdimensions of AF-related QoL were as follows: symptoms, daily activities and treatment concern. Conclusion: The level of QoL of patients with AF was moderate. Higher levels of patient activation in those with AF were associated with milder symptoms, more positive daily activities and fewer treatment concern. Based on our findings, we suggest that healthcare personnel should encourage AF patients to take active participation in cardiac rehabilitation, disease self-management and foster progression of PA level. Future research is warranted to develop tailor-made interventions aimed at the activation level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhipeng Bao
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Peng
- School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shenxinyu Liu
- School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianxi Yu
- School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Gang Yang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Gao
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guozhen Sun
- School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Wazni O, Dandamudi G, Sood N, Hoyt R, Tyler J, Durrani S, Niebauer M, Makati K, Halperin B, Gauri A, Morales G, Shao M, Pouliot E, Kaplon RE, Nissen SE; STOP AF First Trial Investigators. Quality of life after the initial treatment of atrial fibrillation with cryoablation versus drug therapy. Heart Rhythm 2021:S1547-5271(21)02236-0. [PMID: 34666139 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2021.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The STOP AF First trial recently demonstrated that initial treatment with cryoballoon ablation (CBA) is safe and superior to antiarrhythmic drug (AAD) therapy for preventing atrial arrhythmia recurrence in patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF). OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the change in quality of life (QoL) and symptoms after first-line CBA vs AAD therapy. METHODS Patients with symptomatic AF not previously receiving rhythm control therapy were randomized to AAD (class I or III) or CBA (Arctic Front Advance, Medtronic, Mounds View, MN). QoL was evaluated at baseline and at 6 and 12 months by using the Atrial Fibrillation Effect on QualiTy-of-Life (AFEQT) and the European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions questionnaires. A review of AF-associated symptoms was conducted at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. RESULTS In total, 203 subjects received either CBA (n = 104 [51.2%]) or AAD therapy (n = 99 [48.8%]). Improvements in the AFEQT summary and subscale scores were significantly larger with CBA than with AAD therapy at 6 and 12 months (P < .02 for all). Clinically meaningful improvement (>5 points) in the AFEQT summary score from baseline to 12 months was observed in 96.0% (100) of patients in the CBA arm vs 72.2% (71) of patients in the AAD arm (P < .001). No significant between-group differences were observed in the change in the European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions index or visual analog scale scores. Overall, 54.4% (57) of the CBA group vs 29.7% (29) of the AAD group reported no AF-specific symptom recurrence after a 90-day blanking period (P = .0005). CONCLUSION First-line CBA vs AAD therapy is associated with larger improvements in AF-specific QoL and a higher rate of symptom resolution.
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Magnusson P, Mattsson G, Wallhagen M, Karlsson J. Health-related quality of life in patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators in Sweden: a cross-sectional observational trial. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e047053. [PMID: 34244266 PMCID: PMC8273444 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-047053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Decisions regarding implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) must consider information about presumed health-related quality of life (HRQL). The purpose of the study was to assess HRQL in patients with ICD and compare it to a Swedish age-matched and sex-matched population. DESIGN Cross-sectional observational trial. SETTING Swedish ICD cohort. INTERVENTIONS Short form 36 (SF-36) questionnaires from ICD recipients implanted 2007-2017 (response rate 77.2%) were analysed using Mann-Whitney U test and effect size (ES). RESULTS In total, 223 patients (mean age 71.1±9.7 years, 82.1% men) were included. In most SF-36 domains (physical functioning (PF), role physical, general health (GH), vitality, social functioning and mental health), the score for patients with ICD was significantly lower (ES range 0.23-0.41, ie, small difference) than norms, except for bodily pain and role emotional. Both the physical component summary (PCS) and the mental component summary (MCS) scores had ES=0.31. Men and women had similar scores. Primary and secondary prevention patients scored similarly, except for worse GH in primary prevention (p=0.016, ES=0.35). Atrial fibrillation was associated with worse PF (ES=0.41) and PCS (ES=0.38). Appropriate therapy, inappropriate shock or complications requiring surgery were not associated with lower scores in any domain. In primary prevention due to ischaemic versus non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy, no domain was significantly different. PCS decreased with higher age strata (p=0.002) in contrast to MCS (p=0.986). CONCLUSIONS Patients with ICDs have lower physical and mental HRQL than age-matched and sex-matched norms; however, the ESs are small. HRQL is similar regardless of sex, primary/secondary prevention indication, appropriate therapy, inappropriate shock or complications, but decreases with advancing age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Magnusson
- Institution of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Centre for Resarch and Development Region Gävleborg, Uppsala University, Gävle, Sweden
- Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, Department of Caring Sciences, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Gustav Mattsson
- Centre for Resarch and Development Region Gävleborg, Uppsala University, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Marita Wallhagen
- Faculty of Engineering and Sustainable Development; Department of Building, Energy and Sustainability Science, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Jan Karlsson
- University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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Lundqvist CB, Pürerfellner H, White A, Schilling R. Redefining the Standard for Atrial Fibrillation: A Patient-centric Report. Eur Cardiol 2021; 16. [PMID: 33859732 PMCID: PMC8034477 DOI: 10.15420/ecr.2021.16.s1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A roundtable discussion with three European clinical experts in AF and one expert patient diagnosed and treated for AF was conducted in London in October 2019. The panel discussed the implications of AF for patients, current patient pathways, what treatment outcomes were relevant for patients and how the recommendations for the management of AF may change in the future, based on the outcomes of recently published and on-going clinical trials. This article summarises the discussion, and draws upon wider sources to detail best practice and optimal patient treatment pathways.
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Dickson VV, Page SD. Using mixed methods in cardiovascular nursing research: Answering the why, the how, and the what's next. Eur J Cardiovasc Nurs 2021; 20:82-89. [PMID: 33570592 DOI: 10.1093/eurjcn/zvaa024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Mixed methods is an innovative research approach that can be applied to understand complex cardiovascular phenomena. A mixed methods study involves collecting both quantitative and qualitative data and intentionally integrating the data to provide a better understanding of the phenomena than can be achieved by using a quantitative or qualitative approach alone. Conducting a mixed methods study requires planning and careful attention to methodological rigour in the data collection, analysis, and integration phases. This paper provides an overview of the mixed methods approach and describes its application to cardiovascular nursing science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Vaughan Dickson
- Pless Center for Nursing Research, New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing, 431 First Ave, #742, New York, NY 10010, USA
| | - Shayleigh Dickson Page
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, 418 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Palm P, Qvist I, Rasmussen TB, Christensen SW, Håkonsen SJ, Risom SS. Educational interventions to improve outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation-a systematic review. Int J Clin Pract 2020; 74:e13629. [PMID: 32726511 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.13629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an emerging epidemic associated with poor mental health and quality of life, as well as morbidity and mortality. Whilst other cardiovascular conditions have demonstrated positive outcomes from educational programmes, this approach is not well integrated in clinical practice in patients with AF. Though evidence in this area is mounting, a thorough overview seems to be lacking. AIM To assess benefits and harms of educational interventions compared with no intervention in adults with AF. METHOD A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed including the outcomes: Serious adverse events (mortality and readmission), mental health (anxiety and depression), physical capacity, quality of life and self-reported incidence of symptoms of AF. PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library and PsycINFO were searched between June and august 2018. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool was applied for the randomised controlled trials and the Amstar Checklist for the systematic reviews. RESULTS Eight randomised controlled trials and one non-randomised interventional study were included, with a total of 2388 patients. Comparing with controls patient education was associated with a reduction in: Serious adverse events (Risk Ratio 0.78, CI 95% 0.63-0.97), anxiety with a mean difference of -0.62 (CI 95% -1.21, -0.04) and depression with a mean difference of -0.74 (CI 95% -1.34, -0.14). Health-related quality of life and physical capacity was found to increase after patient education, yet, only one study found statistically significant differences between groups. No differences were observed with regards to self-reported incidence of symptoms of AF. CONCLUSIONS Educational interventions significantly decrease the number of serious adverse events in patients with AF and seem to have a positive impact on mental health and self-reported quality of life. However, the evidence is limited, and more studies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pernille Palm
- The Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | - Ina Qvist
- Department of Cardiology, Diagnostic Centre, University Research Clinic for Innovative Patient Pathways, Silkeborg Regional Hospital, Silkeborg, Denmark
| | - Trine Bernholdt Rasmussen
- Department of Cardiology, Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital, Hellerup, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen O, Denmark
| | | | - Sasja Jul Håkonsen
- Centre of Clinical Guidelines, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Signe Stelling Risom
- The Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen O, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen O, Denmark
- Institute of Nursing and Nutrision, University College Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark
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