Exploring expectations and needs of patients undergoing angioplasty

This study aimed to explore needs and expectations of Iranian patients who undergone angioplasty procedures. Coronary artery disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Recently, Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) has frequently been used as a substitute for coronary artery surgery, representing a less invasive and more cost-effective procedure. However, little information is known about the experiences and needs of patients undergone PCI. This research involved a qualitative study that employed the content analysis method. A semi-structured in-depth interview protocol was carried out using a face-to-face approach. Researchers reached to theoretical saturation by interviewing 18 patients who undergone angioplasty. Constant comparison analysis was used with simultaneous data collection. Three themes emerged from this study including Uncertainty, Procedural knowledge and Social Support. The findings from this study enhance our understanding on expectations and needs of patients who undergone PCI. These findings help nurses and health-care providers to develop and provide pre and post-procedural care according to each individual needs and experiences. This Iranian study not only contributes to other international study but also, emphasizes on the need for pre-procedural awareness and post-procedural support of patients who undergone PCI.