Feasibility of a Preoperative e-Nursing Intervention for Older Persons Awaiting Cardiac Surgery
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5294/aqui.2026.26.3.2Keywords:
Cardiovascular diseases, Cardiac Surgery, Nursing, evidence-based nursing, Feaseability studyAbstract
Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality among older adults. Preoperative nursing interventions can improve surgical outcomes by promoting functional recovery and reducing postoperative pulmonary complications. To date, evidence regarding the feasibility of an e-Nursing preoperative intervention on older adults awaiting cardiac surgery is scarce. Objectives: To test the feasibility and acceptability of a preoperative e-Nursing intervention for older adults awaiting elective cardiac surgery, focusing on postoperative complications, length of stay, and health literacy outcomes. Materials and Methods: A single-group cohort feasibility study was conducted in a cardiothoracic department in northern Portugal. Participants aged ≥ 65 years scheduled for elective cardiac surgery received an in-person session with a rehabilitation nurse, including breathing and mobility exercises, followed by weekly remote follow-up until surgery. Data were collected at baseline and hospital discharge using validated instruments for quality of life (EQ-5D), functional status (Barthel and Lawton indexes), health literacy (HLS-EU), and exercise capacity (6-minute walk test). Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed with SPSS v28. Results: Thirty participants (mean age 74 years) completed the program, with high adherence (96.7 %). Postoperative pulmonary complications occurred in 13% of participants, and the mean hospital stay was 7.2 days. Functional and health literacy scores showed slight, non-significant improvements. The intervention was well accepted by participants and healthcare staff. Conclusions: The e-Nursing preoperative program was feasible and acceptable for older adults awaiting cardiac surgery. Findings support the design of a future randomized trial to evaluate its effectiveness in improving recovery and reducing postoperative complications.
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