Effectiveness of a Nurse-Led Cardiac Rehabilitation Programme on Knowledge Regarding Coronary Artery Disease among Patients Attending Selected Hospitals of Dahod District: A Pre-Experimental Study

Abstract

Background
Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide.
Cardiac rehabilitation programmes have been recognized as effective interventions in improving patient
knowledge, promoting lifestyle modification, and reducing disease-related complications. Nurse-led
educational interventions play a crucial role in enhancing patient awareness regarding disease
management and prevention.
Objectives
To assess the effectiveness of a nurse-led cardiac rehabilitation programme on knowledge regarding
coronary artery disease among patients attending selected hospitals in Dahod District.
Methods
A quantitative evaluative approach with a pre-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design was
adopted among 250 coronary artery disease patients. Participants were selected using a non-probability
purposive sampling technique. A structured knowledge questionnaire was used to assess knowledge
before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results
The pre-test findings revealed that 52% of participants had poor knowledge and 48% had average
knowledge regarding cardiac rehabilitation. Following the intervention, 72% of participants
demonstrated good knowledge, while 28% had average knowledge. The calculated paired t-value
(t=6.245, p<0.05) indicated a statistically significant improvement in knowledge scores. Educational
status showed a significant association with pre-test knowledge levels (p<0.05).
Conclusion
The nurse-led cardiac rehabilitation programme was effective in improving knowledge regarding
coronary artery disease and cardiac rehabilitation among patients. Structured educational interventions
should be integrated into routine cardiac care services.