Cardiac Rehabilitation Education among Caregivers: Effect of Information Booklet

Abstract

Background: Cardiac rehabilitation is an essential component of recovery after cardiac surgery. Caregivers play a major role in ensuring adherence to rehabilitation practices after hospital discharge. However, many caregivers have inadequate knowledge regarding early cardiac rehabilitation, which may adversely affect patient recovery.
Introduction: Early cardiac rehabilitation includes gradual physical activity, breathing exercises, medication adherence, dietary modifications, wound care, and regular follow-up. Providing structured educational material to caregivers may improve their knowledge and enhance patient outcomes.
Purpose: To assess the effectiveness of an information booklet on early cardiac rehabilitation among caregivers of post-operative patients admitted to selected hospitals.
Materials and Methods: A quantitative, quasi-experimental, non-equivalent control group pre-test–post-test design was adopted. Sixty caregivers (30 experimental and 30 control) were selected using non-probability purposive sampling. Baseline knowledge was assessed using a structured questionnaire. The experimental group received an information booklet on early cardiac rehabilitation, while the control group received routine care. Post-test knowledge was assessed using the same questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: Before the intervention, both groups had comparable knowledge levels (experimental mean = 11.90 ± 3.20; control mean = 12.10 ± 3.45). After the intervention, the experimental group showed a marked improvement in knowledge (mean = 24.50 ± 1.20) compared with the control group (mean = 17.20 ± 2.50). The calculated unpaired t value (13.28) was statistically significant (p < 0.001), demonstrating the effectiveness of the information booklet. No significant association was found between pre-test knowledge and demographic variables.
Conclusion: The information booklet was highly effective in improving caregivers' knowledge regarding early cardiac rehabilitation. Incorporating structured educational booklets into routine discharge teaching can strengthen caregiver competence, promote adherence to rehabilitation practices, and improve postoperative recovery outcomes.