The effect of shared medical visits on knowledge and self-care in patients with heart failure: A pilot study
published online 01 September 2008.
Objective
Patients with heart failure need education and support to improve knowledge and self-care. Shared medical groups that provide education and support have been successful in other patient populations. This study compares an advanced practice nurse-led shared medical appointment intervention in the office setting with standard care relative to self-care and knowledge among community-living adults with heart failure.
Methods
Participants were randomized to shared appointment and standard care groups, and completed the Heart Failure Knowledge Test and Self-Care Heart Failure Index at baseline and 8 weeks.
Results
From baseline to 8 weeks, Heart Failure Knowledge Test scores improved more for the intervention group than the control group (F time × group = 4.90, df = 1.21; P = .038). There was no difference in groups' rates of change on the total Self-Care Heart Failure Index.
Conclusion
The findings reveal improved knowledge when education and support are provided in a shared medical appointment setting. The shared medical visit model may be feasible as a way to provide patients with heart failure and their families with ongoing education and a supportive environment.
aPurdue University School of Nursing, West Lafayette, Indiana
bCollege of Health Sciences, Touro University International, Cypress, California
cPurdue University School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, West Lafayette, Indiana
Corresponding author: Karen S. Yehle, PhD, MS, RN, CNS-BC, Purdue University School of Nursing, 502 N. University Street, West Lafayette, India 47907
ABSTRACT