Factors Influencing Self-care Behaviors of African Americans with Heart Failure: A Photovoice Project

Authors

Aimee Woda, Marquette University
Ruth Belknap, Marquette UniversityFollow
Kristin Haglund, Marquette UniversityFollow
Margaret Sebern, Marquette UniversityFollow
Ashley Lawrence, Marquette University

Document Type

Article

Language

eng

Format of Original

6 p.

Publication Date

2015

Publisher

Elsevier

Source Publication

Heart & Lung

Source ISSN

0147-9563

Original Item ID

doi: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2014.09.001

Abstract

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to understand the influences of heart failure (HF) self-care among low income, African Americans.

Background

Compared to all other racial groups, African Americans have the highest risk of developing HF, coupled with high mortality and morbidity rates.

Methods

Using the photovoice method, participants related important lifestyle factors through photography. The participants and researcher met for reflection and discussion 2 h per week for six weeks.

Results

Four themes emerged: family support gives me the push I need, social interaction lifts me up, improving my mind to lift depression can improve my heart, and it is important but challenging to follow the HF diet.

Conclusion

The findings from this study may assist policy makers, health care professionals, patients, and support systems in understanding the complexity of engaging in HF self-care. This understanding may lead to the development of appropriate patient-centered assessments and interventions.

Comments

Accepted version. Heart & Lung, Vol. 44 (January-February 2015): 33-38. DOI. © 2015 Elsevier Inc. Used with permission.

Recommended Citation

Woda, Aimee; Belknap, Ruth; Haglund, Kristin; Sebern, Margaret; and Lawrence, Ashley, "Factors Influencing Self-care Behaviors of African Americans with Heart Failure: A Photovoice Project" (2015). College of Nursing Faculty Research and Publications. 358.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/nursing_fac/358