Problem: Patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) are at risk for increased morbidity and mortality due to unidentified depression, and therefore untreated depression. According to the literature, unidentified depression leads to increased morbidity and mortality. Subjects and Purpose: The purpose of this descriptive study was to identify patients, two to six week’s post-MI, who are depressed. Methods and Analysis: The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was given to consenting patients at their post-MI follow up visit in a cardiologist’s office to assess depression. A BDI of > 10 was considered to be at least mild depression. Conceptual Model: Johnson’s Behavioral System Model was the conceptual model used for this project. According to Johnson’s model, patients are viewed as a behavioral system that achieves stability and balance through adaptation for effective functioning. Post – MI patients that are depressed and undiagnosed cannot be assisted by the health care provider to achieve stability and balance; therefore, the patient cannot effectively function increasing the risk for morbidity and mortality. Interpretation: The results of this project showed a 20% occurrence rate of at least mild depression post-MI. Younger patients between 40 to 50 years old had the highest rate of depression. Relevance to Nursing: The advance practice nurse can control health care costs and reduce morbidity and mortality by identifying post-MI patients who are at increased risk for depression, and facilitating appropriate treatment. Key Words: depression, post-MI, morbidity
Session #1223 - Graduate Student Poster Session
The 29th Annual MNRS Research Conference (April 1-4, 2005)