Determination of loneliness and depression in coronary intensive care unit patients

Abstract

Individuals in a coronary intensive care unit can experience feelings of loneliness and depression. These feelings that are experienced can have a negative effect on the patient's progress. Although it is known that it is an important stressor for patients in the intensive care unit the emotional reactions that an individual have not adequately taken into consideration. The aim of this study was to determine the state of loneliness and depression in coronary intensive care unit patients with the diagnosis of myocardial infarction. Sixty patients with the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction in the coronary intensive care unit were interviewed. Data were collected using an information form, UCLA Loneliness Scale and Beck Depression Inventory. It was determined that 53% of the patients who participated in the study had symptoms of depression, 88% experienced loneliness at the mild level and a positive correlation was found between depression and loneliness. Both loneliness and depression were at a high level in women, widows and those who cannot read or write, there was no difference in previous hospital experience and the experience of loneliness and depression. Post MI patients experience loneliness. There is a close relationship between loneliness and depression. It is neces-sary to determine at an early point the emotional problems being experienced by patients with the diagnosis of myocardial infarction in the coronary intensive care unit and to begin appropriate treatment.