EFFECTIVENESS OF A STRUCTURED NURSE-LED CARDIAC REHABILITATION EDUCATION PROGRAMME ON KNOWLEDGE REGARDING CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE

Abstract

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Cardiac rehabilitation programmes have been recognized as effective interventions in improving patient knowledge, promoting lifestyle modification, and reducing disease-related complications. Nurse-led educational interventions play a crucial role in enhancing patient awareness regarding disease management and prevention.

Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of a nurse-led cardiac rehabilitation programme on knowledge regarding coronary artery disease among patients attending selected hospitals in Dahod District.

Methods: A quantitative evaluative approach with a pre-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design was adopted among 250 coronary artery disease patients. Participants were selected using a non-probability purposive sampling technique. A structured knowledge questionnaire was used to assess knowledge before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: The pre-test findings revealed that 52% of participants had poor knowledge and 48% had average knowledge regarding cardiac rehabilitation. Following the intervention, 72% of participants demonstrated good knowledge, while 28% had average knowledge. The calculated paired t-value (t=6.245, p<0.05) indicated a statistically significant improvement in knowledge scores. Educational status showed a significant association with pre-test knowledge levels (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The nurse-led cardiac rehabilitation programme was effective in improving knowledge regarding coronary artery disease and cardiac rehabilitation among patients. Structured educational interventions should be integrated into routine cardiac care services.