A descriptive study to assess the level of knowledge and attitude regarding cardiac rehabilitation among patients with coronary artery disease in selected tertiary hospital, Tamilnadu, India

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Cardiac rehabilitation is an evidence-based programme prevents the progression of disease and increases the quality of life among coronary artery disease patients. Assessment of knowledge and attitude is pivotal before planning and implementing cardiac rehabilitation programme. A descriptive research design was used to assess the knowledge and attitude regarding cardiac rehabilitation among patients with coronary artery disease. The study was conducted in cardiology out Patient department in Chettinad Hospital and research Institute, Tamil Nadu. 100 samples were selected by using non probability convenient sampling technique. The data was collected by using structured self administered questionnaire and 3 point Likert scale. The data were analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. The conceptual framework used in this study was modified Rosenstock’s and Becker -Health Belief Model. The study findings revealed that 62% samples had moderately adequate knowledge and 73% samples had undecided attitude towards cardiac rehabilitation. A moderate degree of positive correlation (r=0.353) was found between the knowledge and attitude. There was no significant association between the level of knowledge and attitude with their selected demographic variables. The study concludes that periodical education programme on cardiac rehabilitation is vital and should be conducted to improve the quality of life.