Psychological care of the coronary patient

This paper examines issues relevant to the care of cardiac patients during both the acute stage of the illness and rehabilitation. Consideration is given to the emotional impact of disease on the individual and how appropriate care during the hospitalisation phase may promote appropriate coping and recovery. In addition, psychological approaches to facilitating appropriate behavioural change on three risk factors for disease progression (smoking, Type A Behaviour and exercise levels) are considered. It is concluded that appropriate counselling and psychological care should be part of the routine service offered by all cardiac units, not simply in ‘centres of excellence’.