Florence Nightingale Journal of Nursing
Original Articles

Patient Experiences after Open Heart Surgery: A Qualitative Systematic Review

1.

Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth Faculty of Health, Plymouth, UK

2.

Departmenf of Nursing and Midwifery, Prince of Songkla University Faculty of Nursing, Hat Yai, Thailand

3.

Department of Nursing, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China

4.

Department Curtin School of Nursing, Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia

Florence Nightingale J Nurs 2025; 33: 1-22
DOI: 10.5152/FNJN.2025.24294
Read: 526 Downloads: 171 Published: 24 September 2025

AIM: The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize findings from qualitative studies exploring patients’ experiences in hospital or at home following open heart surgery.

METHODS: Systematic searches were conducted in CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, ProQuest Dissertation and Theses, and Web of Science covering the period from 2006 to 2023. Studies were selected if they reported a qualitative inquiry into patients’ experiences after open heart surgery. The quality of eligible studies was assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal tool. A meta-aggregation approach was used to synthesize the findings.

RESULTS: Twenty-one studies were included, representing 266 patients across 10 countries. Findings were aggregated into five synthesized findings: (1) information and education needs; (2) adaptation to postsurgical life and financial considerations; (3) support mechanisms; (4) the paradox in lifestyle adjustments post surgery; and (5) recovery trajectory and patient perception of life. These findings highlight the complex nature of recovery, emphasizing educational and support needs. Patients maintained a positive stance toward their surgical outcomes, viewing the surgery as an opportunity for health revival. They viewed the surgery as an appreciation for their lives and those around them.

CONCLUSION: While the findings offer valuable insights into the patient’s physical and social well-being following open heart surgery, they underscore the necessity of patient education, tailored support, and holistic care. Establishing a comprehensive support system by encompassing family members, healthcare professionals, and spiritual resources is imperative for effectively addressing the multifaceted challenges encountered during recovery.

Cite this article as: Kaya, H., Lumprom, O., Schofield, P., Carey, M. C., & Latour, J. M. (2025). Patient experiences after open heart surgery: A qualitative systematic review. Florence Nightingale Journal of Nursing, 33, 0294, doi: 10.5152/FNJN.2025.24294.

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