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A systematic review and thematic synthesis exploring how a previous experience of physical activity influences engagement with cardiac rehabilitation.

McHale, Sheona; Astin, Felicity; Neubeck, Lis; Dawkes, Susan; Hanson, Coral L.

Authors

Sheona McHale

Felicity Astin

Lis Neubeck

Coral L. Hanson



Abstract

Background: Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation is recognised internationally as an effective therapy to improve quality of life and reduce the risk of hospital readmission for individuals diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome. Despite this, half of eligible individuals choose not to engage and the main reason is lack of interest. Furthermore, prior to attending, 40% of eligible individuals report meeting physical activity guidelines. It is unclear whether this influences decisions about engagement. Aims: The aim of this review is to examine systematically qualitative evidence describing patients’ perceptions and experiences, and synthesise what is known about how a previous experience of physical activity in adults diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome influences engagement with physical activity during cardiac rehabilitation. Methods: A systematic review and thematic synthesis was conducted of primary qualitative studies to examine peer-reviewed literature published between1990 and 2017, accessed from database searches of MEDLINE, CINHAL, PsycINFO and Embase. Results: The initial search produced 486 studies, and of these 12 relevant studies were included in this review. Studies included 388 participants from six countries. For previously active individuals, communication factors, self-perceptions of an exercise identity and experience of cardiac rehabilitation influence engagement in physical activity during cardiac rehabilitation. Conclusion: In adults diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome, communication post event and during cardiac rehabilitation is a source of self-appraisal and creates expectations of cardiac rehabilitation. In addition, perceptions of an exercise identity and experience of exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation influence decisions about engagement. To improve uptake and adherence, health professionals should consider previous physical activity levels and tailor information to optimise physical activity post event.

Citation

MCHALE, S., ASTIN, F., NEUBECK, L., DAWKES, S. and HANSON, C.L. 2020. A systematic review and thematic synthesis exploring how a previous experience of physical activity influences engagement with cardiac rehabilitation. European Journal of cardiovascular nursing [online], 19(1), pages 31-43. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1177/1474515119882549

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Sep 24, 2019
Online Publication Date Oct 15, 2019
Publication Date Jan 1, 2020
Deposit Date Jun 7, 2021
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Journal European Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing
Print ISSN 1474-5151
Electronic ISSN 1873-1953
Publisher SAGE Publications
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 19
Issue 1
Pages 31-43
DOI https://doi.org/10.1177/1474515119882549
Keywords Cardiac rehabilitation; Acute coronary syndrome; Physical activity; Previous experience; Engagement; Self-perceptions
Public URL https://rgu-repository.worktribe.com/output/1255138

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