Experiences of a Dilated Cardiomyopathy Patient Suffering to Maintain Life Partnership Based on Margaret Newman’s Theory

Abstract

Background: Dilated cardiomyopathy is a refractory myocardial disease with a poor prognosis. Mrs. G experienced cardiopulmonary arrest during hospitalization. She constantly struggles with uncertainty and experiences immense mental suffering from her symptoms, treatments, anxiety, and prognosis. This condition requires appropriate nursing care. Purpose: This study, which is based on Margaret Newman’s theory, aims to clarify the experience of illness of Mrs. G who has dilated cardiomyopathy. Methods: This involved interpretive and dialectical praxis research. The researcher and Mrs. G formed a partnership through discussion. Hermeneutical analysis was performed on the discussion content. Results: The experience of illness of Mrs. G consisted of 6 phases: “Looking back on the shock of having an illness and receiving medical treatment”, “Looking back on one’s life until present”, “Confusion resulting from uncertainty”, “Self-insight”, “Recognizing one’s true feelings of wanting to live”, and “Commitment and decision to live”. Mrs. G could find a new self and expand her consciousness. Conclusion: Mrs. G found meaning in coping with her illness and discovered the value of living while accepting her own destiny. She connected to her own life and became more prepared to live with hope. Thus, partnership in nursing care according to Newman’s theory can benefit patients with distress from dilated cardiomyopathy. This nursing support can improve patient outlook.