DESCRIPTION OF ADAPTATION PATTERNS FOLLOWING AN ACUTE CARDIAC EVENT.
Contributors: University Of Illinois At Chicago, Health Sciences Center.
Published: 1985
Number of pages: 260
Subjects: Health Sciences, Nursing.
Description: The purpose of this descriptive study was to examine selected psychological factors to determine their influence on subsequent behavior. The Roy Adaptation Model provided the conceptual framework for the study.

The study population was comprised of 54 married male patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction or coronary artery bypass surgery and 25 of their spouses. Prior to discharge, and threee months following, subjects completed four questionnaires (Alyn Decision Making Styles Inventory, Alyn, 1980; Family Environment Scale, Moos, 1974; Firo-B, Schutz, 1967; Tennessee Self Concept Scale, Fitts, 1965; This I Believe, Harvey, 1966). One quarter of the subjects participated in an open ended interview.

Hypotheses were tested to determine the relationship of patient and family characteristics to post hospital outcomes. Analysis of the data with descriptive statistics and qualitative techniques revealed distinct personal and family characteristics. Perceptions of self esteem, interpersonal behavior and family relationships were significantly lower than expected at the time of discharge. In addition, subjects reported a strong preference for distancing from others in the hospital environment. Cognitive styles were characterized by a reliance on authority in stressful situations. Subjects reported dissatisfaction with personal behavior and increased interpersonal conflict.

Subjects' perceptions and relationship characteristics remained stable or improved slightly following discharge. Interpersonal styles of subjects significantly influenced return to work and social activities. Participation in cardiac rehabilitation programs was related to the interpersonal styles of subjects and family support. Families exhibiting cohesion, achievement orientation and strong moral-religious values were associated with positive adaptive responses.
Notes: Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 46-08, Section: B, page: 2627.

Thesis (PH.D.)--UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO, HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER, 1985.

School code: 0806.