Convalescence following coronary surgery: a group experience

The patient who has heart surgery and returns home will experience many problems in adjusting to a modified lifestyle. Successful rehabilitation depends on many factors-the knowledge the patient has about his condition, his own motivation and the support he receives from family and friends. If he has received good teaching in the hospital, his task will be much easier. But is in-hospital teaching enough? Current nursing research suggests that patients are more receptive to health teaching after they have returned home and benefit from sharing experiences with a group. The author describes the results of an investigation into the concerns of convalescent coronary patients and their wives and tells how group sessions helped ease their transition from hospital to a productive lifestyle.