[Systemic nursing intervention in couples in which one member has cardiac insufficiency]

F Duhamel1

  • 1Faculté des sciences infirmières, Université de Montréal, Québec. duhamelf@scinf.umontreal.ca

Insights

Chronic heart failure impacts both patients and spouses, affecting marital dynamics. Family systems nursing interventions help couples navigate illness challenges by fostering communication and resourcefulness.

Area of Science:

  • Nursing
  • Psychology
  • Sociology

Context:

  • Chronic heart failure (CHF) significantly impacts patients' spouses.
  • Marital relationships face unique challenges during long-term illness.
  • Family systems nursing acknowledges the interconnectedness of patient and partner well-being.

Purpose:

  • To explore couples' perceptions of how chronic heart failure (CHF) affects marital dynamics.
  • To evaluate the helpfulness of family systems nursing interventions in managing CHF within the marital context.

Summary:

  • Analysis of three clinical cases revealed three key themes: balancing protectiveness, reassessing the marital relationship, and adopting new coping strategies.
  • Family systems nursing interventions, particularly systemic questioning and resource exploration, were perceived as highly beneficial.
  • These interventions facilitated shared illness experiences, enhanced understanding of illness-marital dynamics, and promoted adaptive strategies for couples facing CHF.

Impact:

  • Provides insights into the psychosocial impact of CHF on marital relationships.
  • Highlights the effectiveness of family systems nursing in supporting couples affected by chronic illness.
  • Offers a framework for healthcare providers to address the needs of both patients and their partners in managing chronic heart failure.

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