Psychological management of heart patients and their relatives in the pre- and postoperative phases: experiences from a 2 year model trial

The psychological and neurological disorders as well as psychosocial problems experienced by cardiac patients and their relatives while waiting for coronary artery bypass surgery are outlined, as well as their intrapsychic situation following the operation. With a view to providing long-term psychological support and care of cardiac bypass patients and their relatives, a care model has been developed which emphasizes the following: (1) initial contact and individual counselling immediately following establishment of the indication for surgery (2) client-centered groups to prepare for the operation, involving both the patients and their partners (3) client-centered (therapy)/relaxation groups for postoperative patients. This model trial is described, covering its development, structure, and contents in some detail. An evaluation is given, as is an explanatory case presentation. The results obtained from 48 cardiac bypass patients in a follow-up study of their views concerning the psychological care provided, are presented in a summary account. Concluding, the authors outline future emphases for practical work and research.