Iranian patient’s expectations about coronary angiography: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Coronary angiography is recognized as the gold test for diagnosis of coronary artery diseases. Based on the literature review, little is known about patients’ expectations about this procedure. Understanding the patient’s expectations is an important way to achieve patient‑centered care. The purpose of this study was to explore the expectations of Iranian patients undergoing coronary angiography.

Materials and Methods: This descriptive exploratory qualitative study was carried out between 2011 and 2012 in three hospitals in Shiraz, Iran, with a purposive sample of 15 patients (7 men and 8 women, about 28-70 years of age). Data were collected using semi‑structured interviews to explore the patients’ expectations. Interview data were analyzed using conventional qualitative content analysis approach.

Results: The interviews revealed that the participants had four main categories of expectations about coronary angiography. The patient’s expectations were those from angiography, from the treatment team, and the need for preparation of angiography, education, and training.

Conclusions: In general, the results of this study revealed a new insight into the expectations of patients undergoing coronary angiography. Patient education and preparation should include information addressing the expectations. Moreover, an appropriate care program based on the patients’ expectations can promote the quality of care and satisfaction of patients.

Key words: Coronary angiography, expectations, Iran, patient education, qualitative study