Patients' Experiences and Unmet Needs in Atrial Fibrillation: Implications for Person-Centred Care

Atrial fibrillation is a common cardiac arrhythmia that significantly impacts patients' daily lives. While clinical management is well established, and despite growing interest in patient-centred care, the perception and emotional response of patients with AF remain less explored.

This study aimed to explore the experiences and perceived needs of patients with atrial fibrillation.

A qualitative descriptive design was employed. Twenty adult patients diagnosed with AF and no cognitive impairment were recruited from a public hospital in northern Portugal. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic content analysis supported by NVivo software. Themes were developed inductively and refined through iterative coding and discussion.

Five main themes were identified: (1) Dealing with a New Normal; (2) Embracing the Illness Journey; (3) Walking the Illness Journey; (4) Unmet Healthcare Needs, and (5) Improving Supportive Services.

Patients with atrial fibrillation face challenges that extend beyond symptom management. Findings underscore the importance of integrated, theory-informed, patient-centred approaches to support individuals living with atrial fibrillation across diverse contexts.