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Cardiac disease and its consequences on the partner relationship: a systematic review

Tomas Dalteg1, Eva Benzein, Bengt Fridlund

  • 1School of Health and Caring Sciences, Linneaus University, Kalmar, Sweden. dato0909@student.hj.se

European Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing
|February 25, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Cardiac disease significantly impacts relationships, causing overprotection and communication issues. However, couples often adjust, finding that the shared experience can ultimately strengthen their bond.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Psychology
  • Sociology

Background:

  • Cardiac disease is a chronic condition with profound effects on patients and their partners.
  • Previous research has not comprehensively reviewed the impact of cardiac disease on partner relationships.
  • This review focuses on myocardial ischemia, arrhythmia, and heart failure.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine how partner relationships are affected after hospital discharge for cardiac disease.
  • To identify key themes related to relationship dynamics following a cardiac event.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic review of literature from CINAHL, PubMed, and PsycINFO (1999-2009).
  • Quality assessment using the Joanna Briggs Institute Reviewers' Manual.
  • Inclusion of 20 relevant articles.

Main Results:

  • Five emergent themes: overprotection, communication deficiency, sexual concerns, altered domestic roles, and illness adjustment.
  • Patients reported overprotection leading to conflict.
  • Couples experienced changes in sexual intimacy and emotional communication.
  • Significant shifts in domestic roles and responsibilities were observed.
  • Despite distress, many couples reported increased closeness post-diagnosis.

Conclusions:

  • Couples experience distress following cardiac events but adapt their relationships.
  • The adjustment process involves navigating challenges and can lead to strengthened bonds.
Abstract

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