Patients' explanatory models for heart failure and COPD exacerbations

Area of Science:

• Medical Sociology
• Patient-Reported Outcomes
• Qualitative Health Research

Background:

• Extensive research exists on the disease aspects of heart failure (HF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Limited attention has been given to the illness experience and explanatory models (EMs) of patients with HF and COPD.
• Increasing incidence and prevalence of HF and COPD contribute to significant morbidity and mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the explanatory models (EMs) of patients hospitalized for exacerbations of HF or COPD.
• To understand patients' perspectives on the causes, effects, and potential interventions for their conditions.
• To lay the groundwork for making healthcare more relevant to patients' lived experiences.

Main Methods:

• A naturalistic inquiry study design was employed.
• Semistructured interviews were conducted with 30 patients hospitalized for HF exacerbations and 30 patients hospitalized for COPD exacerbations.
• Participants described their understanding of disease exacerbations, including etiology, cause, and effects, and suggested helpful interventions.

Main Results:

• Patients with HF and COPD possess distinct explanatory models of their disease exacerbations.
• Participants identified perceived causes and effects of their exacerbations.
• Patients suggested interventions they believed could have prevented hospitalizations or improved home management.

Conclusions:

• Understanding patient-centered explanatory models is essential for enhancing the relevance of healthcare for individuals with HF and COPD.
• The findings provide a foundation for developing patient-aligned educational and management strategies.
• Addressing the illness aspect, alongside the disease aspect, is critical for comprehensive patient care.