Perceptions and experiences of engaging in physical activity following coronary artery bypass graft surgery

ABSTRACT

Background

Engagement in physical activity (PA) during the recovery period following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery improves physical and health-related quality-of-life outcomes.

Objective

To explore people’s perceptions and experiences of engaging in PA during the first three months following CABG surgery.

Methods

A mixed methods study design was utilized. Quantitative data were collected via accelerometer activity capture and standardized questionnaires. Qualitative data were collected via semi-structured interviews at weeks 1, 3, 6 and 12 post-hospital discharge. Interviews were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Two overarching themes described the overall experience of engaging in PA: 1) “Navigating a difficult and unfamiliar road to recovery” and 2) “Still cautious but becoming more confident and able.” These themes described the impact over time that various physical (i.e., fatigue, pain, medical complications, and physical deconditioning), psychological (i.e., fear, confidence, uncertainty, and motivation), and environmental (support) factors had on PA engagement, as well as the relationships between these factors.

Conclusion

The findings provided insight into the physical, psychological, and environmental factors that impacted participants’ PA engagement following CABG surgery. This knowledge may benefit health professionals to optimize preparation and support for adults to engage in PA post-hospital discharge following CABG surgery.

KEYWORDS:

• Coronary artery bypass graft
• physical activity
• early recovery period

Acknowledgments

The authors thank and acknowledge the participants for their involvement in the study.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported that there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.