THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ILLNESS PERCEPTIONS AND HEALTH-PROMOTING BEHAVIORS AFTER MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION

Abstract

Over half of all Americans who suffer a new myocardial infarction (MI) will have a recurrent MI. Risk for subsequent heart related events could be reduced through the regular practice of health-promoting behaviors (HPB). One area that may impact patients? HPBs is their perception of the MI. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between illness perceptions and HPBs. Pender?s Health Promotion Model served as the primary theoretical framework guiding this research. Additionally, concepts from Leventhal?s Common Sense Model of Illness Representations were integrated. A convenience sample of 40 participants, who suffered a first-time MI treated with angioplasty or stent, was examined in this descriptive, correlational study. Instruments included a demographic questionnaire, the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, and the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II. Descriptive statistics and Pearson?s r were used to describe the sample and evaluate relationships between illness perceptions and HPBs. The average age of respondents was 63 years and most were male (65%). A significant positive correlation between the illness perception of personal control and overall HPBs, as well as the subscales of nutrition and spiritual behaviors, were identified. Additionally, a significant positive correlation was demonstrated between level of concern and the HPB subscales physical activity and nutrition. These findings elucidate the opportunities for nursing to influence HPBs. Tailoring patient education strategies to impact illness perceptions, particularly understanding of the seriousness of MI and promoting a sense of control, may influence healthy lifestyle choices and improve outcomes in persons with heart disease.