The spiritual dimension of perceived life satisfaction in heart attack

Abstract

This descriptive exploratory study was conducted in Malta in the local acute general hospital. The spiritual dimension of life satisfaction was explored twice by audio-taped face to face interviews on patients, aged > 65 years old with heart attack across the first three months (Time 1: n = 63; Time 2: n = 51) following onset of myocardial infarction. The study was guided by the theory: hierarchy of human needs. The findings identified two main themes namely: positive and negative spiritual influencing factors. The positive spiritual enhancing factors included family relationships, achievement of life goals and helping others. The spiritual negative influencing factors consisted of unfinished business and unachieved goals in life. The spiritual dimension was oriented towards finding meaning and purpose in life and turning to God for empowerment to cope with their holistic needs. Similarities were found between the findings of both data collection. While acknowledging the limitations of the study, recommendations were set to the hospital management, education sector and further research