Behavior Modification after a Heart Attack: Insights from Patients and Healthcare Professionals

Abstract

Behavior modification is important in managing and preventing recurrent cardiac events following a heart attack. By emphasizing lifestyle modifications and addressing psychosocial factors, healthcare providers can empower patients to take control of their cardiovascular health and improve long-term outcomes. Integrating evidence-based behavior modification programs into routine clinical practice and cardiac rehabilitation is essential for achieving optimal secondary prevention following myocardial infarction and enhancing overall patient well-being. This study explores patients’ behavior modification experience and Healthcare professionals’ perspectives on behavior change observed in heart attack survivors. Methods: We employed a qualitative descriptive study design to answer our research questions. Our participants were a diverse group of 38, including 20 patients who had experienced a heart attack and 18 healthcare professionals who had worked with heart attack survivors. We used a purposive sampling technique to recruit these individuals. Semi-structured in-depth interviews, lasting 40-50 minutes, were conducted with those who agreed to participate. The data were then organized and analyzed with an inductive coding approach, and thematic analysis was used to generate codes, categories, and themes. Results: The findings of this study show various motivations that drive patients to modify their behaviors after a heart attack. Four themes emerged from participant’s data: (1) Behaviour modification after a heart attack, (2) Perspectives on motivations for behavior change, (3) Unconvinced by behavior change, and (4) Challenges in behavior change. Conclusion: The findings contribute valuable insights into individuals’ challenges in adopting behavior changes after a heart attack. The identified resistance shows the need for healthcare professionals to employ personalized and comprehensive strategies to motivate individuals toward holistic lifestyle modifications.