Critical Evaluation of A Research Study on

Preferences of Chronic Heart Failure Patients

Critical Evaluation of A Research Study on Preferences of Chronic Heart Failure Patients

Introduction

The purpose of this assignment is to critically evaluate the research article “Patient Preferences for the Delivery of Disease Management in Chronic Heart Failure”. It was published in Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing, Vol. 27, and No.3 by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins in May/ June 2012 edition. The authors of the research study are Jennifer A. Whitty, Melinda J. Carrington, Simon Stewart, Julie Holliday, Thomas H. Marwick and Paul A. Scuffham. All authors hold very good position in the industry and are highly qualified.

Research Problem

Regardless of numerous studies, the association of patient preferences in delivering CHF MPs is still uncertain. This research study aims to analyse the relationship of management programs' service design and delivery with opinions of patients. This study carries out the detailed analysis bringing into light the increased effectiveness of CHF MPs if clinical trials add the preference study. It reflects the suitability of different program description by the patient and reveals the importance of patient preferences for program provision. The identified characteristics can serve to develop the quality of CHF management programs.

Research design

It was primarily qualitative study. The semi-structured interviews examined the quality and features of CHF-MP in light of patients' preferences and comfort level associated with them. Interview items identified evidence-based program management contributing to interventions.

Sample

Randomized sample was selected from a hospital in Australia for clinical trial. 6 participants were chosen from each MP delivery model (clinical and home based). All 12 participants shared the following characteristics:

Had CHF diagnosed

Hospitalized one or more times for CHF

Cognitively intact

Gave consent for interviewing

Data Analysis

When asked to specify a direct preference between a chronic heart failure management program and patients predilection, three themes were identified as the most desirable aspects of the program. Health-related benefits were one of the main focuses with sub themes identified. Participants emphasise on sub themes of avoidance of hospital admissions in order to continue their independent living. This makes them remain active. When analysing the dominant preferences in design of delivery system, 7 out of 12 participants stated the preferences of clinical based program designing. Participants who preferred home based model categorized their considerations and identified sub themes that lead them to choose between the two delivery models. They indicated that the lack of transportation causes their preferences of home based program. Other participants identified the huge costs associated with travel which aggravates in case they have numerous specialist appointments. Another set of participants preferred home based model because of their chronic condition. Despite having special preference for either a home- or clinic-based program, every participant identified the need of offering flexibly in delivery model as the mobility factor is highly decisive.

The facilities offered to patients were also stated as the important aspect of MP. Identified factors included Benefits association and quick access to required information, staff continuity and services to enhance self management by making expertise available to patients ...