Does Cardiac Surgery Improve the Quality of Lfe of Octogenarians?
Graduation Date
1-2007
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Nursing
Department or Program Chair
Barbara Ganley, PhD
Thesis Advisor
Debbie Daunt, MSN, RN
Abstract
The specific aim of this study is to gain knowledge and understanding of the quality of life of octogenarians after cardiac surgery. Survey outcomes may help cardiac and vascular surgery nurses to fully understand this patient population and to develop appropriate nursing interventions, and maintain their health and quality of life.
In preparation for this study current literature on the outcomes of cardiac surgery in octogenarians in terms of cardiac symptom relief, physical functioning, length of hospital stay and emotional well being has been reviewed. The literature described the benefits and risks of cardiac surgery in individuals 80 years and over. Findings revealed that there is increase number of older adults undergoing cardiac surgery for symptomatic relief and to survive from possible heart attack. More advanced age patients are being considered for cardiac surgery as seen in many cardiovascular specialty hospitals in the United States today.
In the study of patients, who only had a coronary artery bypass grafting surgery, Haskett, Buth, Ghali, et al (2005) described that the elderly patients derived a substantial benefit from revascularization in terms of quality of life, reduction in major cardiac events, diseases and mortality. The world's baby boomers of today are expected to be 80 years old by year 2026.
Cardiac surgery rate will continue to escalate as the number of older adults increase. It is the nurses' ethical responsibility to genuinely explain and guide the elderly and their families, about the significance of their condition, self-care planning, management, and prevention of exacerbation of their symptoms. Nurse’s research knowledge on their quality of life after cardiac surgery also promotes a better understanding of themselves, sense of responsibility, and autonomy in making decisions.