Our Summary

This research paper discusses a study that looked into whether a web-based education application called MyEducation: CABG can help lower feelings of anxiety and depression in people who are about to have heart bypass surgery. The study included 45 patients from a hospital in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, who were split into two groups - one group used the app and the other group didn’t. The app provided information and support to the patients. The researchers found that those who used the app had less anxiety and depression compared to those who didn’t. This was particularly true for feelings of anxiety before the surgery, right after the surgery, and a month after the surgery. Lower levels of depression were only significantly noticeable a month after the surgery. The patients who used the app were also generally happy with its design, content, and how easy it was to use. Based on these findings, the study suggests that the app should be used by more patients who are about to undergo heart bypass surgery, as it could potentially help prevent complications.

FAQs

  1. What is the MyEducation: CABG app and what is its purpose?
  2. What were the findings of the study regarding the impact of the app on patients’ anxiety and depression levels?
  3. How did the patients react to the design, content, and usability of the MyEducation: CABG app?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about CABG is to consider using a web-based education application like MyEducation: CABG to help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression before and after the surgery. This app can provide valuable information and support to help you better prepare for the procedure and cope with any emotional challenges that may arise. It is important to take care of your mental well-being as well as your physical health during this time.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) include those with severe coronary artery disease that cannot be managed effectively with medication or other interventions. This includes patients with:

  1. Severe blockages in multiple coronary arteries
  2. Left main coronary artery disease
  3. Unstable angina or heart attack
  4. Severe chest pain or shortness of breath that limits daily activities
  5. Failed previous coronary interventions such as angioplasty
  6. Diabetes with significant coronary artery disease
  7. Chronic kidney disease or other comorbidities that increase the risk of complications from coronary artery disease

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a cardiologist and cardiac surgeon to determine if CABG is the most appropriate treatment option for their specific condition. Each patient’s individual risk factors, medical history, and preferences should be taken into consideration when making treatment decisions.

Timeline

Before CABG:

  • Patient is diagnosed with coronary artery disease and recommended for CABG surgery
  • Patient undergoes preoperative tests such as blood tests, electrocardiogram, and imaging tests
  • Patient meets with the surgeon to discuss the procedure, risks, and benefits
  • Patient may feel anxious, scared, and uncertain about the surgery

After CABG:

  • Patient undergoes the CABG surgery, which involves grafting healthy blood vessels onto the blocked coronary arteries
  • Patient is monitored closely in the intensive care unit post-surgery
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue during the recovery period
  • Patient undergoes cardiac rehabilitation to improve physical and emotional well-being
  • Patient may experience feelings of anxiety and depression during the recovery process

Overall, the patient experience before and after CABG involves a mix of physical, emotional, and psychological challenges. The use of web-based education applications like MyEducation: CABG can help provide support, information, and resources to patients that can potentially reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, leading to better outcomes post-surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about CABG (coronary artery bypass grafting) include:

  1. What is CABG and why is it recommended for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with CABG?
  3. How should I prepare for the surgery, both physically and mentally?
  4. How long will the recovery process take and what can I expect during this time?
  5. Are there any lifestyle changes I need to make before or after the surgery?
  6. What medications will I need to take after the surgery and for how long?
  7. Will I need cardiac rehabilitation after the surgery and if so, what does it entail?
  8. Are there any restrictions on physical activity or diet that I should be aware of?
  9. How often will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  10. Are there any resources or support groups available for patients undergoing CABG?

Reference

Authors: Noor Hanita Z, Khatijah LA, Kamaruzzaman S, Karuthan C, Raja Mokhtar RA. Journal: BMC Nurs. 2022 Feb 4;21(1):40. doi: 10.1186/s12912-022-00814-4. PMID: 35120517