Care Needs of Patients with Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases from the Perspective of Nurses: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Chronic cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of death globally, making it essential to understand the comprehensive care needs of individuals living with these conditions. Nurses who also suffer from chronic CVDs offer a unique dual perspective, combining professional expertise with personal experience. Objectives: This study aims to explore the care needs of patients with chronic CVDs from the perspective of nurses who themselves live with the condition. Methods: A qualitative content analysis was conducted, with interviews carried out between November 2023 and March 2024, involving 23 nurses affected by chronic cardiovascular diseases in Tehran, Iran. Data were analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman’s approach to identify subcategories and categories related to patient care needs, with the support of MAXQDA v20 software. Results: The participants included 16 women and 7 men, with an average age of 45.6 ± 10.9 years. Sixteen participants held a bachelor’s degree, two had a master’s degree, and five held a doctorate. Analysis of the interviews led to the extraction of 782 primary codes, which were classified into five main categories: Receiving Care from a responsive system, capacity building for the patient, receiving multidimensional care, having a comprehensive support system, and utilizing new caregiving technologies. Conclusions: The findings emphasize the importance of a holistic, patient-centered approach that prioritizes effective communication, seamless access to care, and continuity post-discharge.