Abstract
Aim The aim of this study was to obtain insights from patients and their family members on how families are living with atrial fibrillation. Background Atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac arrhythmia and is often described as an emerging global epidemic affecting an estimated 33.5 million people worldwide. Living with atrial fibrillation not only affects the patient but also may negatively influence family members' perceived health. The perspective of the family has previously been understudied, and more knowledge on how patients and their family members cope and adjust to life with atrial fibrillation may be helpful when developing future support for patients and their family members when coping with atrial fibrillation. Methods A qualitative phenomenological study with an inductive, descriptive research approach based on Giorgi's descriptive method was used. Data were gathered through 12 dyadic family interviews. The COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research checklist was followed while conducting the study. Results Three major themes emerged: emotional differences, changes in family life, and uncertainty about the future. Atrial fibrillation had multiple effects on the family. Frequently, several adjustments and adaptations had to be made to accommodate life with atrial fibrillation. Conclusion Patients with atrial fibrillation and their family members feel a need to talk about their emotions and worries. They required support and guidance to manage the challenges of living with atrial fibrillation. These results will be used in a family-focused intervention designed to support families in adjusting and managing their everyday lives with atrial fibrillation.
Highlights
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia and is often described as the new epidemic among heart diseases [1]
We were not interested in identifying the variety of experiences but wished to produce family unit narratives according to the theory of family-focused nursing [30]. e COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research (COREQ) checklist was followed through developing, performing, and reporting the study [31]
Seven women and five men had AF with a mean age of 66 years. e family members included seven women and four men, with a mean age of 64 years. e family members were primarily spouses (50%)
Summary
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia and is often described as the new epidemic among heart diseases [1]. Managing life with a chronic illness, such as AF, can be distressing for the patients and for their family. Patients and family members facing a chronic illness may have a need and a desire to talk about their beliefs. Whereas earlier studies have focused mainly on treatment of patients with AF, the last decade has seen a growing interest in such patients’ life trajectory after treatment for AF in general and how they experience living with AF in particular [18, 19]. Studies focusing on the narrative of patients and their family members living with AF are sparse [20]. E present study will further our knowledge about how patients with AF and close family members view life with AF [21–24].
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