Posttraumatic stress disorder in the wake of heart disease: prevalence, risk factors, and future research directions

Psychokardiologie – aus praktischer und klinischer Sicht

In order to treat and research the development, progression, therapy and prevention of cardiological and psychosomatic disorders and their interactions, the field of psychocardiology has been established in recent years and now offers several treatment options.The well-known somatic risk factors for cardiovascular diseases such as smoking, diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension and acquired or congenital lipid metabolism disorders, lack of exercise, malnutrition and sleep-related disorders are often related to psychosocial risk factors. Conversely, mental illnesses such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder can also be viewed as independent risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.Somatic illnesses can, in turn, result in significant psychological reactions that have a severely negative impact on the course of the disease, participation and quality of life.In addition to the scientific research into these connections, psychocardiology offers a clinical specialty that questions, diagnoses and provides treatment for psychosocial connections in cardiovascular patients.The aim of this article is primarily to convey clinical and practical aspects of psychocardiology and the most important psychological comorbidities in connection with heart disease. In addition, it should be shown which therapeutic offers are available in the medical care structures and how therapy can be carried out. Psychotherapy and exercise therapy are preferred for the treatment of these comorbid disorders. The possibility of psychopharmacological therapy for cardiovascular patients is also presented, especially because of possible problematic medication interactions.

Posttraumatic stress disorder and quality of life in patients after open thoracoabdominal aortic repair

Background: Open thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) repair is often related to significant morbidity and complications like paraplegia or acute kidney injury. Subsequently, prolonged intensive care stay is common. However, there is a lack of research on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the perceived quality of life (QOL) in patients undergoing complex aortic procedures, such as open TAAA repair. Therefore, our study aims to determine the prevalence of PTSD and the current QOLin these patients and whether it is associated with demographic factors or complications following open thoracoabdominal aortic repair. Patients and methods: In this retrospective study, a total of 213 adult surviving patients after open thoracoabdominal aortic repair were contacted with two questionnaires one to assess PTSD and another to evaluate current QOL after open thoracoabdominal aortic repair. 61 patients returned one or both the questionnaires, and 59 patients (97%) answered all questions of the 4-item primary care PTSD section of the survey. In addition to the PTSD screening, patients were sent an SF-36 questionnaire to assess their current quality of life. 60 patients answered the SF-36 questionnaire partially or completely (98%). Results: 27% of patients (16/59) screened positive for PTSD. Electronic medical records were matched to all responding patients. Patients who were screened positive for PTSD spent more days in intensive care (OR, 1.073; 95% CI 1.02-1.13; p=0.005), had a higher frequency of tracheotomy (OR, 6.43; 95% CI 1.87-22.06; p=0.004), sepsis (OR, 5.63; 95% CI 1.56-20.33; p=0.014), as well as postoperative paraparesis (OR, 13.23; 95% CI 1.36-129.02; p=0.019). In patients with postoperative complications, a statistically significant decrease in the overall score was observed for certain categories of the SF-36. Conclusions: The prevalence of PTSD is higher, in comparison to the general population's prevalence, and the quality of life is affected following open thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair, with a significant relation to postoperative complications as well as the length of ICU stay. Further research and screening for PTSD in relation to open TAAA repair is needed to assess its role in patient QOL during follow up.

Post-traumatic stress disorder among heart disease patients: a clinical follow-up of individuals with myocardial infarction in the Tromsø Study

BACKGROUND

Myocardial infarction is likely to be experienced as a life-threatening and potentially traumatic event. Approximately one-third of patients with myocardial infarction experience clinically significant symptoms of anxiety/depression. However, it is unclear how many of these patients experience these symptoms because of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We conducted a clinical screening of individuals with a confirmed myocardial infarction diagnosis. Our goal was to examine the prevalence of PTSD in myocardial infarction patients and study how PTSD symptoms were associated with exposure to potentially traumatic events.

METHOD

This is epidemiological research with a cross-sectional design following up participants from the Tromsø Study with a confirmed diagnosis of myocardial infarction. We sent invitations to participants in the Tromsø Study with clinically significant self-reported anxiety or depression symptoms following myocardial infarction. A cross-sectional sample of N = 79 participants (61 men and 18 women) was collected. During an interview, participants completed the Stressful Life Events Screening Questionnaire and the PTSD checklist PCL-5.

RESULTS

We found nine participants (11.6%) with probable PTSD. This was significantly higher than the postulated population prevalence in Norway (p < 0.015). We found no direct association between myocardial infarction as illness trauma and symptom levels (p = 0.123). However, we found a significant linear trend (p = 0.002), indicating that symptom severity increased proportionately as the number of post-traumatic events increased.

CONCLUSION

PTSD prevalence in myocardial infarction patients was related to lifetime exposure to traumatic events, not the myocardial infarction event alone. More research is required to examine the interaction between myocardial infarction and PTSD. Clinicians should be aware that anxiety or depression symptoms after MI could be secondary symptoms of PTSD.

Role of Heart Rate Variability in the Association between Myocardial Infarction Severity and Post-Myocardial Infarction Distress

OBJECTIVE

Myocardial infarction (MI) results in mental health consequences, including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The risk and protective factors of such mental consequences are not fully understood. This study examined the relation between MI severity and future mental health consequences and the moderating role of vagal nerve activity.

METHODS

In a reanalysis of data from the Myocardial Infarction-Stress Prevention Intervention (MI-SPRINT) study, 154 post-MI patients participated. MI severity was measured by the Killip Scale and by troponin levels. Depression and PTSD symptoms were assessed with valid questionnaires, both at 3 and 12 months. Vagal nerve activity was indexed by the heart rate variability (HRV) parameter of the root-mean square of successive R-R differences (RMSSD). Following multivariate analyses, the association between MI severity and distress was examined in patients with low and high HRV (RMSSD = 30 ms).

RESULTS

In the full sample, the Killip index predicted post-MI distress only at 3 months, while troponin predicted distress at 3- and 12-months post-MI. However, HRV moderated the effects of the Killip classification; Killip significantly predicted symptoms of depression and PTSD at 3- and 12-months post-MI, but only in patients with low HRV. Such moderation was absent for troponin.

CONCLUSION

MI severity (Killip classification) predicted post-MI depression and PTSD symptoms, but only in patients with low HRV, suggesting that the vagal nerve is a partial protective (moderating) factor in the relation between Killip score and post-MI distress.

Prevalence of post-traumatic stress and tests of metacognition as a PTSD risk marker in patients with coronary heart disease and elevated HADS scores: analysis of data from the PATHWAY RCT's in UK cardiac rehabilitation

Introduction

Anxiety and depression in coronary heart disease (CHD) are associated with poorer health outcomes, greater healthcare use and reduced quality of life. Post-traumatic stress symptoms may be a particular concern as they are associated with increased mortality at follow-up. We examined prevalence of PTSD in patients with elevated anxiety/depression scores referred for cardiac rehabilitation (CR) across seven NHS sites in North-West England. We tested a possible mechanism (metacognition) linking CHD to PTSD symptom severity as implicated in the metacognitive model.

Methods

Data was collected at baseline as part of the NIHR funded PATHWAY trial of metacognitive therapy for anxiety and depression in CHD. Patients (n = 572) with at least mild symptoms of anxiety and depression under routine screening (assessed with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) and attending CR were eligible for the study. A battery of questionnaires, including assessment of demographic variables, PTSD symptoms (using the IES-R) and metacognitive beliefs was administered prior to random allocation and intervention delivery.

Results

Rates of PTSD were high, with 48% of patients meeting threshold for PTSD and a further 15% partial PTSD. All five metacognition subscales were positively associated with PTSD vs. no PTSD, with beliefs about the uncontrollability and danger of worry and beliefs about need to control thoughts being most strongly related. For every unit increase in uncontrollability and danger metacognitions the odds of being in the PTSD group increased 30%, whilst the odds of partial PTSD increased 16%. Stepwise regression analysis using the metacognitive subscales along with demographic and health-related covariates found that uncontrollability/danger and need for control metacognitions explained unique variation in PTSD symptom severity, with unique contributions also for age, sex, and number of comorbidities.

Conclusion

PTSD symptoms appeared highly prevalent in the current CR sample. Metacognitive beliefs were individually associated with symptom severity with the strongest positive relationship observed for beliefs about uncontrollability and dangerousness of worry, followed by need to control thoughts. The results highlight the importance in assessing PTSD in CR patients and add support to implementing metacognitive therapy in CHD to target particular metacognition risk factors in anxiety, depression and PTSD.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder as a Consequence of Acute Cardiovascular Disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To provide an update of the current evidence of cardiac disease-induced posttraumatic stress disorder (CDI-PTSD) with a focus on acute coronary events.

RECENT FINDINGS

A cardiovascular disease, particularly a life-threatening cardiac event is often a highly stressful experience that can induce PTSD in patients and their caregivers, taking a chronic course if left untreated. There are several features distinguishing CDI-PTSD from "traditional" PTSD induced by external trauma, namely enduring somatic threat, inability to avoid trauma-related cues and hyperarousal with internal body sensations leading to constant fear of recurrent cardiac events. An increased risk of recurrent CVD events may be explained by pathophysiological changes, an unhealthy lifestyle and non-adherence to cardiac treatment. A trauma-focused approach might be useful to treat CDI-PTSD. Treatment options for patients and caregivers as well as long-term effects of trauma-focused interventions on physical and mental health outcomes should be future research directions.

Cardiac Related Psychosocial Distress and Traumatic Distress in Individuals with Advanced Heart Failure

Guided by the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping, this study explored relationships between cardiac related psychosocial distress, traumatic distress, and the number of lifetime traumas in people with advanced heart failure. Utilizing a cross-sectional survey design, a convenience sample of participants with advanced heart failure who received treatment in Washington, DC, completed standardized measures. Bivariate analysis showed a statistically significant difference in mean number of exposures and distress associated with advanced heart failure therapies and linear relationships between exposures and traumatic distress, distress and traumatic distress, and exposures and distress, as well as between the number of exposures and distress and traumatic distress and between the distress and traumatic distress. Multivariate analysis suggested that the higher the number of reported traumatic events, the higher the distress, and the higher the distress, the higher the traumatic distress. Social workers and allied team members should consider how a patient's distress relates to traumatic distress in the advanced stage heart failure population.

Analysis of the bidirectional relationships between posttraumatic stress and depression symptoms with physical health functioning in post-9/11 veteran men and women deployed to a war zone

OBJECTIVE

Many war-zone deployed post-9/11 veterans report negative mental health symptoms related to their military service, which can have consequences for physical health symptoms and the impact of physical health on functioning. The current study examined the longitudinal, bidirectional relationships between mental health symptoms and physical health functioning in veteran men and women, allowing for exploration of gender differences.

METHODS

A sample of 1032 post-9/11 veterans (women: n = 554; men: n = 478) who recently returned from a war-zone deployment completed self-report measures of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, depression symptoms, and physical health functioning at 3 time points spanning approximately 7 years. Gender-stratified longitudinal cross-lagged panel analyses were used to examine bidirectional relationships.

RESULTS

PTSD symptom severity was negatively associated with physical health functioning across time. For women, associations were reciprocal, such that those reporting poorer physical health functioning reported more severe PTSD symptoms at later time points. Men with greater PTSD symptom severity reported poorer physical health functioning at later time points, but there was no evidence of bidirectionality. Men and women with more severe depression symptoms reported worse later physical health functioning, which further exacerbated depression symptoms across time.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings showed that individual differences in mental health symptoms both set the stage for and were impacted by physical health functioning in post-9/11 veterans. Although additional research is needed, the current study suggests that healthcare approaches that consider the whole person, such as through integration of mental and physical health treatments, may be particularly relevant for post-9/11 veterans.

Understanding Heart Rate Reactions to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Among Veterans: A Naturalistic Study

OBJECTIVE

We collected naturalistic heart rate data from veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to investigate the effects of various factors on heart rate.

BACKGROUND

PTSD is prevalent among combat veterans in the United States. While a positive correlation between PTSD and heart rate has been documented, specific heart rate profiles during the onset of PTSD symptoms remain unknown.

METHOD

Veterans were recruited during five cycling events in 2017 and 2018 to record resting and activity-related heart rate data using a wrist-worn device. The device also logged self-reported PTSD hyperarousal events. Regression analyses were performed on demographic and behavioral covariates including gender, exercise, antidepressants, smoking habits, sleep habits, average heart rate during reported hyperarousal events, age, glucocorticoids consumption, and alcohol consumption. Heart rate patterns during self-reported PTSD hyperarousal events were analyzed using Auto Regressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA). Heart rate data were also compared to an open-access non-PTSD representative case.

RESULTS

Of 99 veterans with PTSD, 91 participants reported at least one hyperarousal event, with a total of 1023 events; demographic information was complete for 38 participants who formed the subset for regression analyses. The results show that factors including smoking, sleeping, gender, and medication significantly affect resting heart rate. Moreover, unique heart rate patterns associated with PTSD symptoms in terms of stationarity, autocorrelation, and fluctuation characteristics were identified.

CONCLUSION

Our findings show distinguishable heart rate patterns and characteristics during PTSD hyperarousal events.

APPLICATION

These findings show promise for future work to detect the onset of PTSD symptoms.

One out of three bystanders of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests shows signs of pathological psychological processing weeks after the incident - results from structured telephone interviews

Background

Witnessing an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is a traumatic experience. This study analyses bystanders` psychological processing of OHCA. We examined the potential impact of bystanders performing resuscitation and the influence of the relationship between bystander and patient (stranger vs. family/friend of the patient) on the psychological processing.

Methods

A telephone interview survey with bystanders, who witnessed an OHCA of an adult patient was performed weeks after the event between December 2014 and April 2016. The semi-standardized questionnaire contained a question regarding the paramount emotion at the time of the interview. In a post-hoc analysis statements given in response were rated by independent researchers into the categories “signs of pathological psychological processing”, “physiological psychological processing” and “no signs of psychological distress due to the OHCA”.

Results

In this analysis 89 telephone interviews were included. In 27 cases (30.3%) signs of pathological psychological processing could be detected. Bystanders performing resuscitation had a higher rate of “no signs of psychological distress after witnessing OHCA” compared to those not resuscitating (54.7% vs. 26.7%, p < 0.05; relative risk 2.01; 95%CI 1.08, 3.89). No statistical significant differences in the psychological processing could be shown for gender, age, relationship to the patient, current employment in the health sector, location of cardiac arrest or number of additional bystanders.

Conclusions

One out of three bystanders of OHCA suffers signs of pathological psychological processing. This was independent of bystander´s age, gender and relationship to the patient. Performing resuscitation seems to help coping with witnessing OHCA.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13049-021-00945-8.

"Is My Heart Healing?" A Meta-synthesis of Patients' Experiences After Acute Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

Recovery from acute myocardial infarction (AMI) has been primarily understood in a narrow medical sense. For patients who survive, secondary prevention focuses largely on enhancing clinical outcomes. As a result, there is a lack of descriptive accounts of patients' experiences after AMI and little is known about how people go about the challenge of recovering from such an event.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a meta-synthesis of the available literature on qualitative accounts of patients' experiences after AMI.

METHODS

We searched for relevant papers that were descriptive, qualitative accounts of participants' experiences after AMI across 4 electronic databases (April 2016). Using an adapted meta-ethnography approach, we analyzed the findings by translating studies into one another and synthesizing the findings from the studies.

RESULTS

After a review of titles/abstracts, reading each article twice in full, and cross-referencing articles, this process resulted in 17 studies with 224 participants (48% women) aged 23 to 90 years. All participants provided a first-person account of an AMI within the 3-day to 25-year time frame. Two major themes emerged that characterized patients' experiences: navigating lifestyle changes and navigating the emotional reaction to the event-consisting of various subthemes.

CONCLUSION

Although AMI tends to be seen as a discrete event, participants are left with little professional guidance as to how to negotiate significant, and often discordant, psychosocial changes that have long-lasting effects on their lives, similar to persons with chronic illnesses but without research in place to figure out how to best support them.

Correlates of Post-traumatic Growth Following a Myocardial Infarction: A Systematic Review

Correlates of post-traumatic growth (PTG) have been examined in the area of health psychology previously, with much focus on aspects of personality, coping, and social support. This systematic review aimed to examine correlates of PTG for those who have experienced a myocardial infarction (MI). Studies which met inclusion criteria were assessed for quality and reviewed. Results showed an inconsistent strength of associations between studies and so conclusions cannot be drawn. Possible reasons for these differences are discussed and recommendations for future research are suggested.

Impact of prior trauma exposure on the development of PTSD symptoms after suspected acute coronary syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association between PTSD symptoms due to prior trauma and prior trauma type with PTSD symptoms after suspected acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

METHOD

A consecutive sample of patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) for suspected ACS were surveyed. Logistic regression was used to estimate the odds of elevated ACS-related PTSD symptoms [PCL-S ≥ 33] at 1-month associated with PTSD symptoms due to prior trauma and prior trauma type at the time of suspected ACS, adjusting for demographics, comorbidities, depression, and etiology of ACS symptoms.

RESULTS

Of 984 patients, 81.6% reported ≥1 prior trauma type and 22.5% reported PTSD symptoms due to prior trauma at the time of suspected ACS. One month later, 18.0% had ACS-related PTSD symptoms. Patients with versus without PTSD symptoms due to prior trauma at the time of the suspected ACS had increased odds of ACS-related PTSD symptoms one month later (42.1% vs 9.9%; aOR 4.49, 95% CI:3.05-6.60; p < .001). Prior life-threatening illness was the only trauma type significantly associated with ACS-related PTSD symptoms (aOR 1.57, 95% CI:1.03-2.39; p = .04).

CONCLUSIONS

PTSD symptoms from prior trauma and history of life-threatening medical illness at the time of suspected ACS increased risk of ACS-related PTSD symptoms one month later.

Course, Moderators, and Predictors of Acute Coronary Syndrome-Induced Post-traumatic Stress: A Secondary Analysis From the Myocardial Infarction-Stress Prevention Intervention Randomized Controlled Trial

Acute coronary syndromes (ACS) induce post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in one out of eight patients. Effects of preventive interventions, the course and potential moderators of ACS-induced PTSS are vastly understudied. This study explored whether a preventive behavioral intervention leads to a decrease in myocardial infarction (MI)-induced PTSS between two follow-up assessments. Sociodemographic, clinical and psychological factors were additionally tested as both moderators of change over time in PTSS and predictors of PTSS across two follow-ups. Within 48 h after reaching stable circulatory conditions, 104 patients with MI were randomized to a 45-min one-session intervention of either trauma-focused counseling or stress counseling (active control). Sociodemographic, clinical, and psychological data were collected at baseline, and PTSS were assessed with the Clinician-Administered Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Scale 3 and 12 months post-MI. PTSS severity showed no change over time from 3 to 12 months post-MI, either in all patients or through the intervention [mean group difference for total PTSS = 1.6 (95% CI -1.8, 4.9), re-experiencing symptoms = 0.8 (95% CI -0.7, 2.2), avoidance/numbing symptoms = 0.1 (95% CI -1.6, 1.7) and hyperarousal symptoms = 0.6 (95% CI -0.9, 2.1)]. Patients receiving one preventive session of trauma-focused counseling showed a decrease from 3 to 12 months post-MI in avoidance symptoms with higher age (p = 0.011) and direct associations of clinical burden indices with total PTSS across both follow-ups (p's ≤ 0.043; interaction effects). Regardless of the intervention, decreases in re-experiencing, avoidance and hyperarousal symptoms from 3 to 12 months post-MI occurred, respectively, in men (p = 0.006), participants with low education (p = 0.014) and with more acute stress symptoms (p = 0.021). Peritraumatic distress (p = 0.004) and lifetime depression (p = 0.038) predicted total PTSS across both follow-ups. We conclude that PTSS were persistent in the first year after MI and not prevented by an early one-session intervention. A preventive one-session intervention of trauma-focused counseling may be inappropriate for certain subgroups of patients, although this observation needs confirmation. As predictors of the development and persistence of PTSS, sociodemographic and psychological factors could help to identify high-risk patients yet at hospital admission.

Myocardial infarction-induced acute stress and post-traumatic stress symptoms: the moderating role of an alexithymia trait - difficulties identifying feelings

BACKGROUND

It has been acknowledged that medical life-threatening experiences such as an acute myocardial infarction (MI) often lead to acute stress disorder symptoms (ASS), which in turn can result in the development of post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). Previous studies have suggested an association between various traumatic experiences and alexithymia. The association of alexithymia with ASS and PTSS in patients with MI is elusive.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to examine the association of alexithymia with MI-induced ASS and PTSS in patients at high risk of developing PTSD.

METHOD

Patients (N = 154) were examined twice, once within 48 hours, and then again three months after acute MI. All patients completed the self-rating Acute Stress Disorder Scale (ASDS) within 48 hours after the cardiac event. Three months after hospital discharge, all patients completed the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) and underwent the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS), a structured interview to assess the severity of PTSS. Descriptive statistics, correlations, multivariate linear regressions, and moderation analysis were conducted.

RESULTS

The linear regression model explained 23% of the variance in MI-induced PTSS-symptoms (F(6.109) = 5.58, p < 0.001, R ² = 0.23. ASS was significantly related to PTSS severity (r (152) = p < 0.001). The scores of the TAS-20 subscale difficulties identifying feelings (DIF) were found to significantly moderate this relationship (R²  = 0.03, p = 0.04). The scores of TAS-20 subscales DDF and EOT as well as the TAS-20 total score had no influence on the relationship between ASS and PTSS (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In MI patients with high levels of DIF, ASS predicted the development of PTSS. If replicated, the finding may inform emotion-oriented interventions to investigate whether increasing the capacity to identify feelings following acute MI could be beneficial in preventing the development of PTSS.

Traumatic Stress, Attachment Style, and Health Outcomes in Cardiac Rehabilitation Patients

OBJECTIVE

Research on psychosocial risk factors in cardiovascular disease (CVD) has identified traumatic stress and attachment style as independent risk factors for the development of CVD and poor prognosis for those with established CVD. Exploring the interrelationships between these variables will inform psychosocial risk factor modeling and potential avenues for intervention. Therefore, the hypothesis that attachment style is related to health outcomes among CR patients and that traumatic stress mediates this relationship was tested.

METHODS

Patients in a cardiac rehabilitation program (n = 201) completed validated self-report measures of traumatic stress and attachment style at baseline (program intake). Health outcomes were assessed at baseline and 3 months, including anxiety, depression, quality of life, fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and cholesterol (HDL ratio). Multivariate structural equation modeling was used to fit the data.

RESULTS

Of the 201 participants, 42 (21%) had trauma scores indicating the probable presence of posttraumatic stress disorder. Via greater levels of traumatic stress, greater attachment anxiety at baseline was indirectly related to greater anxiety, depression, fasting blood glucose, and HbA1c, and poorer physical and mental quality of life. There were no significant indirect effects on HDL ratios.

CONCLUSION

Greater attachment anxiety predicted greater traumatic stress; this, in turn, predicted poorer health outcomes. Screening and treatment for these constructs in CVD patients is warranted.

The Impact of Cardiac-induced Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms on Cardiovascular Outcomes: Design and Rationale of the Prospective Observational Reactions to Acute Care and Hospitalizations (ReACH) Study

Aims:

As many as 1 in 8 acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to the ACS, and ACS-induced PTSD may increase secondary cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. However, prior studies have been small and underpowered to test plausible behavioral or biological mechanisms of the hypothesized PTSD-secondary CVD risk association. In this paper, we describe the design and methods of a large prospective observational cohort study to estimate the prognostic significance of ACS-induced PTSD, mechanisms for its association with CVD risk, and emergency department (ED) factors that may increase PTSD risk, in a cohort of patients evaluated for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in the ED of a large, urban academic medical center.

Methods:

The Reactions to Acute Care and Hospitalization (ReACH) study follows 1,741 racially, ethnically, and socioeconomically diverse patients initially presenting to the ED with ACS symptoms. Psychosocial factors are assessed at baseline. Medication adherence is monitored by electronic pill bottle (eCAP). Participants are contacted by phone at 1-, 6-, and 12-months post-hospitalization to assess PTSD symptoms, hospital readmission, and recurrent CVD events/mortality (proactively searched and confirmed by medical records).

Conclusion:

This study will provide the most accurate estimates to date of PTSD’s association with recurrent CVD events and mortality and will test whether medication adherence mediates that association. Further, it will provide estimates of the contribution of ED and hospital factors to PTSD risk in ACS patients. If our hypotheses are supported, we will have identified PTSD as a novel target for secondary risk reduction.

An Examination of the Association Between Post-traumatic Growth and Stress Symptomatology in Cardiac Outpatients

This study examined the association between post-traumatic growth (PTG), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and trauma-related factors in cardiac outpatients. Participants recruited from four cardiology clinics between November 2014 and July 2015 (N = 52, 69.2% men, M_age = 65 years) completed self-assessments of PTG and PTSD along with demographic, cardiac health index, and trauma-related factors. In total, 75% of the sample endorsed their cardiac event as traumatic, while 17.2% reported their cardiac event as their 'worst trauma'; those endorsing the latter did not significantly differ from those endorsing 'other traumas' as their worst. Chi-square analyses indicated that the lifetime traumas of experiencing loss or abandonment, witnessing trauma, and experiencing a natural disaster were significantly related to PTG factors of new possibilities, relating to others, and spirituality. Bivariate correlations on all PTSD symptom clusters and factors of PTG revealed the strongest associations between the PTG factors of spiritual change and appreciation of life. Lifetime PTSD symptoms, duration of negative reactions, and re-experiencing symptoms were found to be significantly associated with higher PTG, and a unique independent effect emerged with avoidance symptoms. Our results suggest that PTG may be associated with particular facets of PTSD symptomatology.

Cardiac-disease-induced PTSD and Fear of illness progression: Capturing the unique nature of disease-related PTSD

According to Edmondson's Enduring Somatic Threat (EST) Model of PTSD Due to Acute Life-Threatening Medical Events, the nature of PTSD in the context of illness may differ from the nature of "traditional" PTSD in that it includes future-oriented alongside past-related intrusive thoughts. Yet almost no empirical studies to date have assessed the putative future-oriented quality of cardiac-disease-induced PTSD (CDI-PTSD). In the current study, we assessed the hypothesized associations between CDI-PTSD and fear of illness progression (FoP) - a novel theoretical conceptualization of patients' future-related anxieties. We hypothesized that FoP would be positively associated with CDI-PTSD, and especially with its specific items of intrusive thoughts. Patients (N = 112) were interviewed three months post-hospitalization for an acute coronary event via use of the PSS-SR-5 (to assess PTSD symptomatology), the FoP-Q-SF (to assess fear of illness progression), and the HADS (to assess anxiety and depression levels). Results indicated a strong positive association between CDI-PTSD and FoP, even when controlling for anxiety and depression. As hypothesized, the concepts of CDI-PTSD and fear of illness progression were strongly associated both at the level of the clusters as well as at the level of the specific items. The current study provides an initial empirical validation of the EST Model, especially regarding the future-oriented nature of PTSD resulting from acute cardiovascular disease.

Posttraumatic stress disorder and mortality in VA patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators

BACKGROUND

The association between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and mortality in patients undergoing implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) placement has not been evaluated in US veterans.

HYPOTHESIS

PTSD in veterans with ICD is associated with increased mortality.

METHODS

We studied a retrospective cohort of 25 678 veterans who underwent ICD implantation between September 30, 2002, and December 31, 2011. Of these subjects, 3280 carried the diagnosis of PTSD prior to ICD implantation. Primary outcome was all-cause mortality between date of ICD implantation and end of follow-up (September 30, 2013). We used Cox proportional hazard models to compute multivariable adjusted hazard ratios with corresponding 95% confidence intervals for the relation between PTSD diagnosis and death following ICD placement.

RESULTS

During a mean follow-up of 4.21 ± 2.62 years, 11 015 deaths were reported. The crude incidence rate of death was 87.8 and 103.9/1000 person-years for people with and without PTSD, respectively. We did not find an association between presence of PTSD before or after ICD implantation and incident death when adjusted for multiple risk factors (hazard ratio: 1.003, 95% confidence interval: 0.948-1.061). In secondary analysis, no statistically significant association was found.

CONCLUSIONS

In this retrospective cohort study among more than 25 000 veterans undergoing ICD implantation, almost 13% had a diagnosis of PTSD. Subjects with PTSD were significantly younger, yet they had a higher incidence of coronary heart disease, major cardiac comorbidities, cancer, and mental health conditions. We found no association between presence of PTSD before or after ICD implantation and incident death when adjusting for all covariates.

Psychological sequelae of myocardial infarction

Patient with myocardial infarction (MI) are often affected by psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Psychological disorders are disabling and have a negative influence on recovery, reduce the quality of life and causes high mortality rate in MI patients. Despite tremendous advancement in technologies, screening scales, and treatment strategies, psychological sequelae of MI are currently understudied, underestimated, underdiagnosed, and undertreated. Depression is highly prevalent in MI patients followed by anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Pathophysiological factors involved in psychopathologies observed in patients with MI are sympathetic over-activity, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction, and inflammation. Numerous preclinical and clinical studies evidenced a positive association between MI and psychopathologies with a common molecular pathophysiology. This review provides an update on diagnostic feature, prevalence, pathophysiology, clinical outcomes, and management strategies of psychopathologies associated with MI. Moreover, preclinical research findings on molecular mechanisms involved in post-MI psychopathologies and future therapeutic strategies have been outlined in the review.

Cardiac Disease-Induced Post-traumatic Stress Symptoms (CDI-PTSS) Among Patients' Partners

It is well established that a patient's partner can be deeply affected by the traumatizing nature of the patient's illness. Yet, no study to date has focused on post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) among partners of patients coping with an acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The current study's main aims were to address this gap and to evaluate cardiac disease-induced (CDI) PTSS prevalence in partners of patients who experienced ACS. Patients who experienced ACS and their partners were interviewed by telephone 2 to 6 months after patients' hospitalization. All patients and partners were screened for CDI-PTSS. Demographic and medical variables as well as partners' level of exposure to the cardiac event were assessed. Prevalence of CDI-PTSS was higher among partners than among patients. Partners' number of CDI-PTSS was not significantly associated with patients' number of CDI-PTSS or with any of the other explanatory factors measured, except for education level. The preliminary results that arose from the current study point to the vast number of individuals who must act as caregivers for their ill partners while having to cope with their own PTSS. Much effort should be channelled into integrating partners into cardiac recovery programmes. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Trait anxiety mediates the effect of stress exposure on post-traumatic stress disorder and depression risk in cardiac surgery patients

BACKGROUND

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression are common after cardiac surgery. Lifetime stress exposure and personality traits may influence the development of these psychiatric conditions.

METHODS

Self-reported rates of PTSD and depression and potential determinants (i.e., trait anxiety and stress exposure) were established 1.5 to 4 years after cardiac surgery. Data was available for 1125 out of 1244 (90.4%) participants. Multivariable linear regressions were conducted to investigate mediating and/or moderating effects of trait anxiety on the relationship between stress exposure, and PTSD and depression. Pre-planned subgroup analyses were performed for both sexes.

RESULTS

PTSD and depression symptoms were present in 10.2% and 13.1% of the participants, respectively. Trait anxiety was a full mediator of the association between stress exposure and depression in both the total cohort and female and male subgroups. Moreover, trait anxiety partially mediated the relationship between stress exposure and PTSD in the full cohort and the male subgroup, whereas trait anxiety fully mediated this relationship in female patients. Trait anxiety did not play a moderating role in the total patient sample, nor after stratification on gender.

LIMITATIONS

The unequal distribution of male (78%) and female patients (22%) might limit the generalizability of our findings. Furthermore, risk factors were investigated retrospectively and with variable follow-up time.

CONCLUSIONS

In cardiac surgery patients, trait anxiety was found to be an important mediator of postoperative PTSD and depression. Prospective research is necessary to verify whether these factors are reliable screening measures of individuals' vulnerability for psychopathology development after cardiac surgery.

Should Sabbath Prohibitions Be Overridden to Provide Emotional Support to a Sick Relative?

BACKGROUND

There is a consensus among the halachic authorities that life-saving actions override Sabbath prohibitions. They are painstaking in securing that the sanctity of the Sabbath is maintained but that not a single life be lost.

OBJECTIVE

This manuscript examines if and when a relative's presence at the bedside of a seriously ill individual is potentially life-saving against the backdrop of the scientific literature. It specifically addresses the permissibility of traveling in a motorized vehicle, generally prohibited on the Sabbath, to be with one's relative in hospital for the provision of emotional support.

METHODS

Discourse of the halachic issues in the context of the scientific literature.

RESULTS

Stress, mental or physical, has been determined as a potentially life-threatening condition in many disease entities. The literature attests to both the patient's and the professionals' perception of the curative potential of the presence of loved ones by advocating for the patient and relieving stress in the hospital experience. Emotional support from a loved one is perceived by some patients as vital to survival. There is halachic consensus that a patient's perception of the emotional need for a relative's presence is sufficient to permit overriding rabbinic prohibitions. Torah prohibitions, which may be overridden for medical needs, may be overridden for emotional support, providing a health professional or family member attests to the fulfilment of this specific need as diminishing the danger to the patient's life. In certain cases, the latter contingency is unnecessary.

CONCLUSIONS

Emotional support has an impact on the patient's health status; the degree to which its impact is strong enough to save life is still being studied. As more data from scientific studies emerge, they may be relevant to sharpening the halachic rulings with respect to the issue at hand.

The fear of dying and occurrence of posttraumatic stress symptoms after an acute coronary syndrome: A prospective observational study

The purpose of the study was to investigate whether experiencing fear of dying after acute coronary syndrome predicts later posttraumatic stress symptoms. We enrolled 90 patients hospitalized with main diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome and assessed baseline characteristics. One month after discharge, we collected the Posttraumatic Stress Scale. A total of 24 patients (26.7%) developed posttraumatic stress symptoms 1 month after the acute coronary syndrome event. Patients with posttraumatic stress symptoms reported significantly greater fear of dying, helplessness, avoidance-focused coping, and severe anxiety. In our prospective study, fear of dying was associated with occurrence of posttraumatic stress symptoms in patients hospitalized with acute coronary syndrome.

High prevalence of posttraumatic stress in patients with primary hypertension

OBJECTIVE

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with a higher rate of arterial hypertension. However, data about prevalence rates of PTSD in patients suffering from arterial hypertension as well as the relation to blood pressure (BP) control are lacking.

METHODS

We recruited 145 patients with primary hypertension from March to November 2012 at the cardiologic outpatient clinic at Ulm University Medical Center. Symptoms of PTSD (assessed with the Posttraumatic Diagnostic Scale), perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale; Trier Inventory for Chronic Stress), depression and anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) were assessed by self-report. Office BP was measured and medical data were collected.

RESULTS

Criteria for a full PTSD syndrome were met by 13 patients (9%). Posttraumatic stress was higher in the group of patients with controlled (M=10.9, S.D.=9.8) than in those with uncontrolled hypertension (M=3.9, S.D.=5.4; P<.001). In linear regression, only status of hypertension control (beta=.39, P<.001) predicted posttraumatic stress significantly, even after controlling for important cofactors.

CONCLUSIONS

PTSD is highly prevalent in hypertensive patients, especially in those with controlled hypertension. An explaining mechanism could be the higher use of health care by patients suffering from PTSD. The mental needs of these patients should be focused in addition to the well-established somatic care.

Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms in first-time myocardial infarction patients: roles of attachment and alexithymia

AIMS

To explore the roles of attachment and alexithymia in the severity of post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and to specify the relationship between sub-dimensions of attachment, alexithymia and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in patients with first-time myocardial infarction in mainland China.

BACKGROUND

Patients experiencing myocardial infarction have a risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. However, there have been few studies on the roles of attachment and alexithymia.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional survey design.

METHODS

Ninety-seven patients participated in the assessment of post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, attachment and alexithymia from June-December in 2012. To assess post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and their correlates, we administered the Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist-Civilian Version, the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale and the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale 5-17 days after the remission of first myocardial infarction attack.

RESULTS

Twenty-five (25·77%) patients met the criteria of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. Greater attachment anxiety and avoidance were associated with more severe posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. Except for externally oriented thinking, all dimensions of alexithymia were significantly correlated with post-traumatic stress symptoms. In the regression model, attachment anxiety and difficulties identifying feelings were found to be predictive and the total regression equation explained 24·2% variance of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms among myocardial infarction patients.

CONCLUSION

First-time myocardial infarction patients were at risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. Attachment anxiety and difficulties identifying feelings were positively associated with posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in the early stage of myocardial infarction rehabilitation. It is essential to evaluate the causal relationship between attachment, alexithymia and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in longitudinal studies.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder among Cardiac Patients: Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Considerations for Assessment and Treatment

There is increasing awareness of the impact of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on physical health, particularly cardiovascular disease. We review the literature on the role of trauma in the development of cardiovascular risk factors and disease, aftermath of a cardiac event, and risk for recurrence in cardiac patients. We explore possible mechanisms to explain these relationships, as well as appropriate assessment and treatment strategies for this population. Our main conclusion is that screening and referral for appropriate treatments are important given the high prevalence rates of PTSD in cardiac populations and the associated impact on morbidity and mortality.

Psychological consequences of screening for cardiovascular risk factors in an un-selected general population: Results from the Inter99 randomised intervention study

Background: Concerns that general health checks, including screening for risk factors to ischemic heart disease (IHD), have negative psychological consequences seem widely unfounded; however, previous studies are only based on self-reports from participants. Aim: To investigate if risk factor screening in healthy adults leads to mental distress in the study population, independent of participation. Methods: The Inter99 study (1999 – 2006) was a randomised intervention in the general population, aiming to prevent IHD by a healthier lifestyle. We included the whole study population, independent of participation ( n = 60,915). We merged data with information on the use of psychotropic medication and/or hospitalisation due to psychiatric diagnoses, as retrieved from national registers in Denmark, 4 years before and 5 years after the study began. We conducted analyses using generalised estimating equations. Results: There was no significant difference between the intervention and control groups in their use of antipsychotics, hypnotics/sedatives, antidepressants or anxiolytics. As regards admission to the hospital with mental disorders, no significant difference was seen. These findings were true based on a yearly basis, and when investigating both short-term and a long-term effects of the intervention. There was no interaction with socioeconomic status. Of the 918 persons with a psychiatric diagnosis before the study start, 303 (33%) were re-admitted in the intervention period. Pre-screening of psychological status did not influence the psychological impact of screening. Conclusions: This large, randomised intervention study supports that screening for risk factors to IHD does not increase mental distress, not even in the mentally or socioeconomically most vulnerable persons. This study included the whole Inter99 study population (not only study participants).

Does Illness Perception Predict Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Patients with Myocardial Infarction?

INTRODUCTION

Myocardial infarction (MI) as a life-threatening event, carrying high risk of recurrence and chronic disabling complications, increases the risk of developing acute stress disorder (ASD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or both. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between illness perceptions and having ASD, PTSD, or both in patients after MI.

METHOD

Seventy-six patients diagnosed with acute MI were enrolled into our prospective study. We evaluated patients during the first week and six months after MI. Patients were assessed by using the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS), the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS), the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ), and a semi-structured interview for socio-demographic characteristics during both the first and second evaluations.

RESULTS

Acute stress disorder (ASD) developed in 9.2% of patients and PTSD developed in 11.9% of patients with MI. Illness perception factors of 'consequences, identity and concern' predicted the occurrence of both ASD and PTSD, whereas 'emotion' predicted only PTSD.

CONCLUSION

The factors of illness perceptions predicted the induction of ASD and PTSD in patients who had acute MI.

Position paper on the importance of psychosocial factors in cardiology: Update 2013

Background: The rapid progress of psychosomatic research in cardiology and also the increasing impact of psychosocial issues in the clinical daily routine have prompted the Clinical Commission of the German Heart Society (DGK) to agree to an update of the first state of the art paper on this issue which was originally released in 2008.

Methods: The circle of experts was increased, general aspects were implemented and the state of the art was updated. Particular emphasis was dedicated to coronary heart diseases (CHD), heart rhythm diseases and heart failure because to date the evidence-based clinical knowledge is most advanced in these particular areas. Differences between men and women and over the life span were considered in the recommendations as were influences of cognitive capability and the interactive and synergistic impact of classical somatic risk factors on the affective comorbidity in heart disease patients.

Results: A IA recommendation (recommendation grade I and evidence grade A) was given for the need to consider psychosocial risk factors in the estimation of coronary risks as etiological and prognostic risk factors. Furthermore, for the recommendation to routinely integrate psychosocial patient management into the care of heart surgery patients because in these patients, comorbid affective disorders (e.g. depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder) are highly prevalent and often have a malignant prognosis. A IB recommendation was given for the treatment of psychosocial risk factors aiming to prevent the onset of CHD, particularly if the psychosocial risk factor is harmful in itself (e.g. depression) or constrains the treatment of the somatic risk factors. Patients with acute and chronic CHD should be offered anti-depressive medication if these patients suffer from medium to severe states of depression and in this case medication with selective reuptake inhibitors should be given. In the long-term course of treatment with implanted cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) a subjective health technology assessment is warranted. In particular, the likelihood of affective comorbidities and the onset of psychological crises should be carefully considered.

Conclusions: The present state of the art paper presents an update of current empirical evidence in psychocardiology. The paper provides evidence-based recommendations for the integration of psychosocial factors into cardiological practice and highlights areas of high priority. The evidence for estimating the efficiency for psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacological interventions has increased substantially since the first release of the policy document but is, however, still weak. There remains an urgent need to establish curricula for physician competence in psychodiagnosis, communication and referral to ensure that current psychocardiac knowledge is translated into the daily routine.

Social Support May Protect against Development of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Findings from the Heart and Soul Study

Purpose.

No prospective studies have examined the association of poor social support and development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in patients with chronic illness. This study addresses this knowledge gap.

Design.

This prospective study examines the relationship of social support to the subsequent development of PTSD during a 5-year period.

Setting.

San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Subjects.

A total of 579 participants with cardiovascular disease did not have PTSD at baseline and returned for the 5-year follow-up examination.

Measures.

PTSD measured by Computerized Diagnostic Interview Schedule for DSM-IV. Social support measured by Interpersonal Support Evaluation List (ISEL).

Analysis.

Unconditional ordered logistic regression analyses were performed to yield the odds ratio of developing PTSD for a one-standard-deviation change in ISEL score.

Results.

Of 579 participants who did not have PTSD at baseline, approximately 6.4% (n = 37) developed PTSD. Higher baseline perceived social support was strongly protective against development of PTSD (OR = .60, p = .001). Results remained significant after adjustment for age, sex, race, income, and depression (OR =.69, p =.04). Of social support types examined, the “tangible” and “belonging” domains were most strongly associated with future PTSD status.

Conclusion.

Social support may impact development of PTSD. Interventions that optimize social support may be part of a PTSD prevention program designed to help individuals at risk of developing PTSD.

Evaluation of an individualised programme to promote self-care in sleep-activity in patients with coronary artery disease -- a randomised intervention study

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness of an individualised programme to promote self-care in sleep-activity in patients with coronary artery disease.

BACKGROUND

Recent scientific findings have shown that low physical exercise and stress interfere with coronary artery disease patients' sleep quality and sleep efficiency independent of gender, age and co-morbidity.

DESIGN

A randomised pretest-post-test control design.

METHODS

Forty-seven patients who had undergone a coronary revascularisation procedure and/or pharmacological treatment three to seven weeks earlier at a general hospital were randomised to either an intervention group or a control group. Data collection was carried out by questionnaires, a study-specific sleep diary and actigraphy registration for 10 consecutive 24-hour periods, with a follow-up after three to four months. The intervention group underwent a nurse-led individualised education programme to promote self-care of sleep-activity. Sleep habits and sleep-related lifestyle together formed the basis for setting up individual goals together with the nurse. Individual advice on physical training, relaxation exercise and a CD-based relaxation programme was provided by a physiotherapist. Both groups received a brochure about sleep and stress.

RESULTS

At a three- to four-month follow-up, the main improvements were seen in the intervention group regarding sleep quality, sleep duration and sleep efficiency in the sleep diary and sleep efficiency in actigraphy. Statistical improvements in health-related quality of life were revealed. This was not so obvious in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

An individualised intervention programme to promote self-care of sleep-activity including relaxation in patients with coronary artery disease led by a nurse may improve sleep quality. However, a longitudinal study to promote self-care in sleep-activity should be performed using a larger sample and multiple sites with continuous follow-ups to determine whether any positive effects remain stable over time.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Implementation of a multiprofessional individualised programme to promote self-care of sleep-activity including relaxation based on patients' needs, supported by a healthcare team and led by nurses, is important in clinical practice.

Psychological distress in patients with a left ventricular assist device and their partners: an exploratory study

BACKGROUND

Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) therapy is increasingly used in patients with advanced heart failure, and may have a significant psychological impact on both patients and their partners. Hence, we examined the distress levels of LVAD patients and their partners.

METHODS

Anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were assessed at 3-4 weeks after implantation, and at 3 and 6 months follow-up in 33 LVAD patients (73% men; mean age=54±10 years) and 33 partners (27% men; mean age=54±11 years).

RESULTS

The prevalence of anxiety in LVAD partners was significantly higher compared to LVAD patients at baseline (48% vs. 23%, p=0.03) and 3 months follow-up (44% vs. 15%, p=0.02), but not at 6 months follow-up (p=0.43). No differences were found for depression and PTSD (ps>0.05). Scores between the LVAD patients and partners showed only a significant correlation at baseline between the anxiety, depression and PTSD score of the patient and the depression score of the partner (r anx=0.40, p=0.04; rdep=.40, p=0.04; r PSTD=0.46, p=0.05). Multivariable analyses showed no significant association between the role (patient vs. partner) and anxiety, depression and PTSD over time after correction for age, gender and clinical covariates. However, after correction for Type D personality and the use of psychotropic medication the LVAD partners showed significantly higher anxiety (F=6.95, p=0.01) and depression (F=3.94, p=0.04) scores over time compared to LVAD patients.

CONCLUSION

LVAD partners had significantly higher levels of anxiety than LVAD patients. Emotional distress of LVAD partners should gain more attention, as partners are an essential source of support for LVAD patients.

Myocardial Infarction - Stress PRevention INTervention (MI-SPRINT) to reduce the incidence of posttraumatic stress after acute myocardial infarction through trauma-focused psychological counseling: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) may occur in patients after exposure to a life-threatening illness. About one out of six patients develop clinically relevant levels of PTSD symptoms after acute myocardial infarction (MI). Symptoms of PTSD are associated with impaired quality of life and increase the risk of recurrent cardiovascular events. The main hypothesis of the MI-SPRINT study is that trauma-focused psychological counseling is more effective than non-trauma focused counseling in preventing posttraumatic stress after acute MI.

METHODS/DESIGN

The study is a single-center, randomized controlled psychological trial with two active intervention arms. The sample consists of 426 patients aged 18 years or older who are at 'high risk' to develop clinically relevant posttraumatic stress symptoms. 'High risk' patients are identified with three single-item questions with a numeric rating scale (0 to 10) asking about 'pain during MI', 'fear of dying until admission' and/or 'worrying and feeling helpless when being told about having MI'. Exclusion criteria are emergency heart surgery, severe comorbidities, current severe depression, disorientation, cognitive impairment and suicidal ideation. Patients will be randomly allocated to a single 45-minute counseling session targeting either specific MI-triggered traumatic reactions (that is, the verum intervention) or the general role of psychosocial stress in coronary heart disease (that is, the control intervention). The session will take place in the coronary care unit within 48 hours, by the bedside, after patients have reached stable circulatory conditions. Each patient will additionally receive an illustrated information booklet as study material. Sociodemographic factors, psychosocial and medical data, and cardiometabolic risk factors will be assessed during hospitalization. The primary outcome is the interviewer-rated posttraumatic stress level at three-month follow-up, which is hypothesized to be at least 20% lower in the verum group than in the control group using the t-test. Secondary outcomes are posttraumatic stress levels at 12-month follow-up, and psychosocial functioning and cardiometabolic risk factors at both follow-up assessments.

DISCUSSION

If the verum intervention proves to be effective, the study will be the first to show that a brief trauma-focused psychological intervention delivered within a somatic health care setting can reduce the incidence of posttraumatic stress in acute MI patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01781247.

Coping Experiences: A Pathway towards Different Coping Orientations Four and Twelve Months after Myocardial Infarction-A Grounded Theory Approach

Background. Patients recovering from a myocardial infarction (MI) are faced with a number of serious challenges. Aim. To create a substantive theory on myocardial infarction patients' coping as a continuum. Methods. Grounded theory method was used. Data were collected by using individual interviews. The informants were 28 MI patients. Results. The core category “coping experiences—a pathway towards different coping orientations” includes 2 main categories: “positive and negative coping experiences” (4 months after MI) and “different coping orientations” (12 months after MI). Conclusion. Coping with a myocardial infarction is a long-term dynamic process of dealing with varied emotions and adjustment needs. Coping is threatened, if the patient denies the seriousness of the situation, suffers from depression and emotional exhaustion, or if there are serious problems in the interaction with family members. This study stresses the importance of recognizing the patient's depressive state of mind and the psychological aspects which affect family dynamics. A more family-centered approach involving a posthospital counseling intervention is recommended. Relevance to Clinical Practice. The results of this study can be used in nursing care practice when organizing support interventions for myocardial infarction patients.