Determination of anxiety and comfort in heart patients with and without pacemaker

The aim of the study is to examine the effects of anxiety and comfort in cardiac patients with and without pacemakers (PM). The study, which was conducted with a descriptive and correlational model, was conducted in the cardiology clinics and polyclinics of Malatya Education and Research Hospital between 2023-2024. The research universe consisted of adult cardiac patients who had PM implanted and those who had not at least 6 months ago. A total of 130 patients (65 with PM, 65 without PM) were included in the study. Data were collected through the Personal Introduction Form, State Anxiety test and General Comfort Scale Short Form. No significant difference was found between the patient groups with and without pacemakers in terms of anxiety and comfort averages (p>0.05). It was determined that the anxiety levels of the patients were positively predicted by the time they were diagnosed, while age and income status were negatively predicted (Adjusted R2=0.311, p<0.05). It was determined that the comfort levels of the patients, the period of diagnosis and education status were positive predictors, while the income status was a negative predictor (Adjusted R2=0.280, p<0.05). A moderate negative (r=-0.50) and significant (p<0.05) relationship was found between anxiety and comfort in the patients. As a result of the research, it was found that the patients had a moderate level of anxiety and comfort. As the anxiety level of the patients decreased, their comfort increased. It may be recommended to teach effective coping strategies for anxiety in this patient group.