Qualitative analysis of a mutual goal-setting intervention in participants with heart failure
published online 01 September 2008.
Objective
The purpose of this study was to identify factors influencing self-management in patients with heart failure. Themes were determined by examining the review of the Goal Attainment Follow-up Guide and anecdotal records made by nurse interventionists during their implementation of mutual goal setting for the study of participants with heart failure.
Methods
Anecdotal records from a study using a mutual goal-setting intervention with participants with heart failure were reviewed and analyzed using qualitative methods to determine emerging themes.
Results
The anecdotal records of 27 patients were reviewed. Four themes emerged from this analysis: (1) competing priorities, (2) self-efficacy related to heart failure self-management, (3) activity level, and (4) psychosocial adaptation.
Conclusion
Goals set by participants reflected their life experiences and exemplified challenges with heart failure self-management. Some themes reflected the complexity of their lives, whereas other themes demonstrated levels of knowledge and motivation. Mutual goal setting was helpful in understanding the perspective of the participants and their receptivity to the process of adopting health-promoting behaviors.
aAsthma Network of West Michigan, Grand Rapids, Michigan
bKirkhof College of Nursing, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan
Corresponding author: Karen Meyerson, MSN, RN, FNP-C, AE-C, Manager, Asthma Network of West Michigan, 245 State Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Supported by the American Heart Association, Midwest Affiliate [9951107Z], Kay Setter Kline, PhD, PI.
ABSTRACT