Reduction of Anxiety, Undergoing Cardiac Catheterization - Dissertation Example

Six journal articles were selected based on the study’s inclusion and exclusion criteria. In addition, a root cause analysis is conducted relative to patient anxiety in anticipation and apprehension of cardiac catheterization. Six of the most relevant works of literature are analyzed using the frameworks of Coughlan, et. al. and Ryan et.al. (2007).
Results

It is concluded that the works critically appraised are believable and reliable with valid results and inform that educational information is conducive to anxiety management in advance of cardiac catheterization. Specifically, this study finds that patient education prior to undergoing cardiac catheterization significantly decreases fear, uncertainty and distress among patients anticipating the experience of undergoing cardiac catheterization. In turn, patients are more willing to comply with pre-cardiac catheterization and post-catheterization instructions. The combined effect of compliance and reduced anxiety helps patients make a more fruitful and time-efficient recovery.
Discussion

Implications for future research and clinical practice are discussed. The weaknesses and strengths of the research and the underlying research studies critically appraised are revealed. The study makes recommendations informed by the results and the analysis of the results. This study is important because it can contribute to existing knowledge by identifying the current status of the knowledge relative to the reduction of patient anxiety over undergoing cardiac catheterization via education and what areas may require further research for improving the current knowledge base. Moreover, by identifying the current status of knowledge relative to reducing patient anxiety via education for improving the effectiveness of cardiac catheterization, nursing practices can be informed by the benefits of using education as a method of managing patient anxiety.

Essentially, this research report identifies and explains how this research can inform research and practice relative to the reduction of patient anxiety in anticipation of cardiac catheterization.