Learning needs of patients with angina: an extension study

This study compares the learning needs of patients diagnosed with coronary artery disease who experience angina with ratings by the patients themselves and the nurses who care for them. Also compared are the rankings done on categories of select learning needs with rankings done on categories of actual or intended adherence to prescribed medical regimens, using data obtained from the patients. Samples consisted of 15 telemetry unit nurses, 15 inpatients with angina, and 15 postdischarge patients with angina. All participants responded to the Cardiac Patient Learning Need Inventory and a demographic data sheet. Patients also responded to the Educator Preference Tool and either the Health Intention or Health Behavior Scale. Data analysis indicated that similarities and differences existed between patients and nurses in what they believed is important for patients to learn. Patients expressed a greater preference for physicians, rather than nurses, to teach them cardiac information. The findings indicate that what patients believe is most important to learn, as indicated by select learning needs categories, is related to what they most intend to do or actually adhere to regarding their medical regimen.