Status and influencing factors of self-care among patients with chronic heart failure and their spouses from a dual perspective: a cross-sectional study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Objective: To investigate the current status and influencing factors of self-care among chronic heart failure (CHF) patients and their spouses in China from a dyadic perspective, and to explore the interaction mechanisms between actor and partner variables. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design, 204 dyads of CHF patients and their spouses were recruited from a tertiary hospital in Zhejiang Province. Data were collected via an online questionnaire platform, with trained investigators assisting elderly participants unable to complete the survey on their own. Questionnaires used in this study included the general information questionnaire, Self-Care of Heart Failure Index, Health Literacy Scale, Mutuality Scale, and Social Support Rating Scale. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression and the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model. Results: < 0.001). Multiple regression indicated that mutuality and CHF training experience were positively associated with self-care for the dyads. APIM analysis revealed that patient health literacy and spouse mutuality had significant actor-partner effects, influencing both their own and their partner's self-care. Conclusion: Self-care levels in CHF dyads were generally low. Clinical interventions should shift from an individualistic focus to a dyadic approach, specifically targeting the enhancement of patient health literacy and spouse mutuality to improve overall family-based disease management.
Institutions: Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University
Language: English
Topic: Nursing care and research
Subfield: Research and Theory
Field: Nursing
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,801
OpenAlex ID: W7221020971