The effect of a psychoeducation program based on the neuman systems model on coping with stress and psychological well-being of patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators

Objective: The aim of this study is to examine the effects of a psychoeducation program based on Neuman Systems Model on the coping with stress and psychological well-being of patients Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) and to strengthen the patients' defense lines. Method: The research is a single mixed method research that combines qualitative program development and embedded mixed method research, which is a variation of multi-phase mixed method design. Program development method was conducted in the first stage, and technical action research was carried out in the second stage. The sample of the research consisted of five patients who underwent ICD in the Cardiology Clinic of Health Sciences University Antalya Training and Research Hospital. During the action process of the research, a psychoeducation program was carried out individually with the participants. Quantitative data in the research were collected with the Stress Coping Styles Scale (SBTO) and the Psychological Well-being Scale before and after the action. Qualitative data were collected with the Post-Action Semi-Structured Interview Form. Scale score averages were used for quantitative data, and thematic and descriptive analysis were used for qualitative data. Results: At the end of psychoeducation, there was an increase in the mean scores of the self-confident approach and optimistic approach sub-dimensions of the SBTO. The mean scores of the helpless approach, submissive approach and seeking social support sub-dimensions decreased. The mean scores of the patients on the Psychological Well-Being Scale increased after psychoeducation. Four main themes were obtained from the qualitative data: methods of coping with stress, reactions to living with the device, benefiting from psychoeducation and metaphors related to the device. Conclusion: The NSM-based psychoeducation program had a positive effect on psychological well-being and stress coping in ICD patients. Key words: Neuman Systems Model, psychoeducation, implantable cardioverter defibrillator, coping, well-being