Coping behaviours in myocardial infarction rehabilitation

This study was designed to discover the coping behaviours used by patients six to twelve months following a myocardial infarction (MI). The conceptualization of coping behaviours was based on the UBC Model for Nursing which directed the researcher to examine coping behaviours used to meet the patients' basic human needs. The specific research question was, "What new or already established coping behaviours have patients utilized after an MI in an attempt to satisfy their basic human needs?" Seven participants who had experienced an MI six to twelve months previously, were recruited from cardiologists. Data were collected from the participants during interviews using semi-structured open-ended questioning technique. Data were coded and analyzed using the constant comparative method developed by Glaser and Strauss. Three themes that emerged from the data were: 1) coping behaviours related to risk reduction, 2) coping behaviours related to returning to normal, 3) coping behaviours related to reaching a new normal. The findings supported the need for lifestyle changes involving the use of existing coping behaviours and/or the development of new coping behaviours to meet subjects' basic human needs. Certain unmet basic human needs were identified following an MI which required the development of new coping behaviours to meet them. Nurses are in a unique position to assist MI patients in developing coping behaviours to meet their basic human needs. The descriptions and explanations of coping behaviours identified in this study may serve as a useful guide for nurses to help patients deal with changes in their lives and develop necessary coping behaviours to meet their basic human needs.Applied Science, Faculty ofNursing, School ofGraduat