Effects of interventions to promote recovery in coronary artery bypass surgical patients.

In this integrated review of the literature 19 published investigations of interventions to promote recovery following coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) are analyzed. The most frequently tested CABG recovery intervention, preparatory information, effectively increased knowledge, and enhanced resumption of activities during recovery. However, its effect on mood states during recovery remains unclear. There was clear evidence that information interventions designed to increase individuals' knowledge about expected recovery experiences and coronary artery disease were effective. Analysis of the studies indicated that few women, elders, and minority races were included. An important area needing development and testing of interventions is secondary prevention of cardiac risk factors.