EVALUATION OF THE CARDIAC ANXIETY IN POSTOPERATIVE CARDIAC SURGERY

Abstract

Objective: The Cardiac Anxiety is characterized by apprehensive expectation focused on cardiac symptoms. Cardiac anxious people often try to self-medicate. Self-medication and Cardiac Anxiety predict damages in social life. In general, the Cardiac Anxiety is not a part of the routine evaluation of patients. This cross-sectional survey aims to evaluate postoperatively Cardiac Anxiety in heart patients. Furthermore, the following informations could help the doctor to identify anxious feelings, panic and other specific symptoms. Methods: The cross-sectional survey involved 91 patients with cardiac disease verified. The study was performed using three questionnaires as study tool: the Patient Health Questionnaire - Depression Scale (PHQ -9), the Questionnaire Generalized Anxiety Disorder for the DMS - IV (DSM - IV - GA) and the Cardiac Anxiety Questionnaire (QAC). Results: In general, 57.14 % (n = 52) of the people had levels moderate or elevated depression symptoms, the prevalence of symptoms of anxiety was 51,87% (n=57), and approximately 83.51 % (n = 76) were classified as cases of Cardiac Anxiety. The significant association between levels Cardiac Anxiety and Myocardial Infarction (p=0,047) and between Cardiac Anxiety and Hypertension (OR = 1,205; 95% = 0,272 – 5,272).  Conclusion: The study indicated that Cardiac Anxiety was prevalent in postoperative patients. Thus, the identification and clinical management of this event is of great importance of early treatment for the prognosis of cardiac disorders.