| Sub-title | |
| Author | Donia Baldacchino |
| Abstract | Through research findings and nursing experience, it could be said that the spiritual dimension has been underestimated in patient care. A longitudinal research study was conducted on a sample of 70 patients with first MI in the main general teaching hospital in Malta. One of the aims was to identify relationships between patients anxiety and depression and spiritual well-being across the first three months after MI. Anxiety and depression were measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (Zigmond and Snaith 1983) whilst SWB was investigated by the JAREL SWB scale (Hungelmann et al. 1989). Findings revealed that anxiety was more prominent than depression. Negative significant relationships were identified between anxiety and SWB during the early stage of recovery. In contrast, depression was found negatively related in the later stages of the recovery period. Several coping strategies were used including the religious. Hence, in their struggle to find meaning and purpose in life, individuals cope by the use of both religious and non-religious strategies (Baldacchino 2003). This implies that the multidisciplinary team need to give attention to the religious perspective to enhance holistic care. |
Published in: | |
| Journal | Malta Medical Journal |
| Volume | 15 Issue 1-2/suppl. 2003 |
| Pages | - |
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| Link to journal | |
| Key words | anxiety, depression, spiritual-well being, myocardial infarction |