Lived Experiences of Patients with Coronary Artery Disease: A Qualitative Study from a Cardiac Center of a Regional Hospital in Mauritius

Abstract

Objectives: Coronary artery disease (CAD), also known as ischemic heart disease or atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD), is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality globally and has contributed to about 80% of sudden deaths. There have been advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of CAD, some of which are still going on to improve patient care, however, there is a dearth of information regarding the various challenges the patients go through after being diagnosed with CAD and so a qualitative study was conducted on cardiac patients in Mauritius to shine a light on the various aspects of life affected by CAD. This is the first qualitative study conducted on cardiac patients in Mauritius. Material and Methods: A phenomenological qualitative study was performed on 12 patients who were diagnosed with CAD, at the Cardiac Unit of Victoria Hospital, Mauritius. By the use of NVivo 12 (Windows) Plus software, after it was transcribed, codes/nodes and themes were generated. Results: Twenty-five different codes were inferred from the study done and from the respective codes, eight main themes were established. The main themes drawn from the study were as follows: Emotional factors, risk factors, optimistic factors, support, awareness of your health, consequences, lifestyle modifications, and the healthcare system. Conclusion: An event of CAD is an experience with multifaceted influences on innumerable aspects of the patient’s life. The study illuminated the immense sufferings and emotional bearings of those patients who were living with heart disease. They expressed their overbearing, insecurities, and a loss of control over various aspects of their lives. This study provided various thought-provoking themes that emerged after transcribing the qualitative interviews. It also highlighted the various challenges faced by patients and how the beliefs of patients with CAD were vital to sustaining them. Family support is a vital aspect in keeping the patient both motivated to follow their treatment and emotionally grounded.