CARDIAC INFORMATION AND TEACHING FOR RURAL OLDER ADULTS

Abstract

This project is undertaken to educate rural older adults, an underserved population, about cardiac function, dysfunction and specific medications. This intervention was based on Orem's Self-care Deficit Theory. Her Nursing System Sub-Theory is applicable when a patient's therapeutic Self-care Demand is greater than his Self-care Agency. Education is one avenue nursing can use to increase the knowledge deficit of the patient. Increased knowledge about medications has been shown to increase compliance and enhance self-care (Smits & Kee, 1992; Taira, 1991; Weintraub, 1990). At the completion of this educational intervention, older adults will be able to: 1) discuss heart function and dysfunction related to their specific cardiac medications; 2) describe expected action of specific medications related to their cardiac dysfunction; 3) identify one additional item of interest related to their cardiac medications. The program was evaluated by administering a pre - post questionnaire (ROAM 1) developed by the investigator. Data analyses found no significant relationships between program objectives and individual items on the ROAM 1. Additional study is needed to validate the questionnaire prior to any future use.