RT Journal Article
T1 Sustained quality-of-life gains following nurse-led cardiac rehabilitation: A longitudinal study to support nursing practice
A1 Ferreira Díaz, María José
K1 Cardiac rehabilitation
K1 Health-related quality of life
K1 Nurse-led care
K1 Secondary prevention
K1 Longitudinal study
K1 Nursing Interventions Classification
AB BackgroundCardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a key component of secondary prevention in cardiovascular care. While its effects on clinical outcomes are well established, the long-term impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and the specific contribution of nurse-led care remain underexplored in real-world settings.AimsTo evaluate longitudinal changes in HRQoL among patients who completed a structured nurse-led CR program, and to identify subgroup differences and predictors of sustained improvement.MethodsA prospective cohort study was conducted with 181 patients following myocardial infarction or cardiac surgery. HRQoL was assessed using the SF-36 questionnaire at four time points: baseline, discharge, 6 months, and 12 months. Sociodemographic, clinical, and psychosocial variables were analyzed. Nurse-led interventions were guided by standardized NIC classifications, including health education (NIC 5240), cardiac rehabilitation (NIC 5246), and emotional support (NIC 5270).ResultsHRQoL improved significantly across all SF-36 domains over 12 months (p < 0.001), especially in physical functioning, vitality, and general health. Women, patients with low education, and those with baseline anxiety showed lower initial scores but meaningful gains. Adherence to the full program was strongly associated with sustained improvements.ConclusionsNurse-led CR is effective in promoting sustained HRQoL gains across physical and emotional domains. Standardized interventions based on NIC contribute to structured, person-centered care delivery, especially in vulnerable populations.Implications for nursing practiceMonitoring HRQoL through validated tools and NIC-guided nursing plans enhances long-term cardiovascular recovery. Integration of psychosocial assessment and extended follow-up may improve equity and personalization in post-cardiac care.
PB Elsevier
YR 2025
FD 2025-11-29
LK https://hdl.handle.net/10347/46964
UL https://hdl.handle.net/10347/46964
LA eng
NO Díaz, M. J. F. (2025). Sustained quality-of-life gains following nurse-led cardiac rehabilitation: A longitudinal study to support nursing practice. Applied Nursing Research, 86, 152020. 10.1016/j.apnr.2025.152020
NO This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.
DS Minerva
RD 6 may 2026