Changes in illness perception among patients' undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.

Background: Little is known about changes in illness perception (IP) among patients treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Objectives: To examine changes in IP among patients undergoing PCI and examine the effects of demographics and clinical details on IP.

Methods: A descriptive repeated measures design was used. IP was evaluated at pre discharge time and six months' later.

Results: Six months' post PCI, patients perceived their illness as chronic, had more control over their condition, and better understanding of it. They experienced less symptoms, lower perceptions of consequences on their life and less emotional representation indicating positive changes. Receiving health education at follow-up time had a significant interaction effects on increased personal and treatment control. Having a family history of coronary heart disease associated with better understanding of illness.

Conclusion: Assessing patient' IP and providing health education at follow-up time should be incorporated in optimizing the care of PCI patients.