Description of Anxiety Levels and Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) in Patients with Congestive Heart Failure

Abstract

Introduction: Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) stands as a leading cause of mortality globally, with high hospitalization rates. CHF patients tend to exhibit higher  degrees of adverse feelings like anxiety and depression compared to healthy individuals. Anxiety triggers several bodily changes, particularly in vital signs, manifesting as increased blood pressure. This study aims to describe anxiety levels and Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) among patients with Congestive Heart Failure. Methods: This research utilized a descriptive, analytical, quantitative methodology featuring a cross-sectional design. The participant group comprised of 36 respondents selected using consecutive sampling according to the inclusion criteria. Data were collected using research instruments, including the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS) questionnaire, as well as blood pressure and pulse rate measurement sheets.  The data analysis used was univariate. Results:  The characteristics of the respondents showed that most were male, had varied educational backgrounds, had incomes below the regional minimum wage, and  had an average age of 61 years. The findings suggested that individuals mainly encountered moderate levels of anxiety (38.9%) and severe anxiety (61.1%). In addition, most patients had elevated Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP), with 75% classified as hypertensive (MAP greater than 107 mmHg). Conclusions: Anxiety in patients with chronic diseases such as heart disease can lead to very severe anxiety and even depression. Blood pressure in patients with heart failure may also increase due to compensatory arterial vasoconstriction aimed at maintaining reduced cardiac output. Nurses, as part of the healthcare team, must be able to assess  the degree of anxiety in individuals suffering from Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) and analyze vital sign findings to provide appropriate interventions.