Journal of Qualitative Research in Health Sciences

Authors

1 Kerman University of Medical Sciences ,international Campus, Kerman, Iran

2 Khorasgan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran

3 Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

4 Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences,Rafsanjan, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Self-management is a dynamic process in which individuals actively manage their chronic illness. The purpose of this article was to outline self-management resources used by patients following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. The choosing of self-management resources by individuals is a personal process which differs based on the individual’s background. Although factors effective on self-management have been determined in previous studies, the self-management resources used by patients after CABG have been overlooked. Method: A qualitative approach based on content analysis was used in this study. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews conducted at a cardiac rehabilitation center in Kerman, Iran. Participants comprised 25 patients, 3 nurses, 4 cardiac specialists, and 7 family members. Results: Through data analysis, 8 categories in 3 major themes were extracted. The major themes comprised the basis for patients' self-management resources following CABG intervention. In the first theme, "regaining mental strength", the categories of "Meaning making", "Positive thinking", and "Focus on capability" were identified. The 2 categories of "Thanking God" and "Religious help" caused the formation of the theme "sustaining spiritual-self". In the third theme, "social support", the 3 categories of "Seeking family support", "Contact with peers", and "Seeking health care providers' support" were identified. Conclusion: According to the findings, participants themselves activate psychological, spiritual, and social resources to manage their illness. However, resource activation should be carried out with the support of and through a mutual relationship with health care providers.

Keywords

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