The Role of the Spouse and Marital Satisfaction in the Recovery of the Coronary Bypass Patient
Abstract
Despite the dramatic increase in the number of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgeries performed over the last decade, several studies have shown that significant numbers of patients do not benefit from CABG with respect to longevity. It is possible, however, that they benefit from improved quality of life. Considerable research has suggested that social support, including support from a marital partner, plays a role in the quality of life, both in terms of physical and emotional well-being. To examine the role of the spouse and the marital relationship in the recovery of the coronary bypass patient, a study was conducted to test the following hypotheses: 1) that a positive marriage would have beneficial effects on the patient's perceived physical recovery from coronary bypass surgery, independent of the patient's medical status and 2) that the surgery would have deleterious effects on the couple's sexual relationship, but have beneficial effects on their marital relationship. Sixty male patients and their spouses were evaluated several days before surgery and seven months after surgery. Perceived physical recovery was defined as number and type of cardiac symptoms endorsed by the patient, scores on the basic and intermediate activities of daily living Functional Status Questionnaire, and frequency of and satisfaction with sexual relations. Marital factors assessing the quality of the marital relationship, communication and display of affection were assessed as well.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 22, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA634871
Entities
People
- Dana R. Hill
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences