Effects of a Problem-Based Learning Rehabilitation Programme on Quality of Life in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

BACKGROUND: The aim of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is not only physical improvement but also increased quality of life (QoL). A CR programme based upon problem based learning (PBL) philosophy was developed, to achieve and apply new knowledge related to coronary artery disease (CAD). The aim of this paper was to evaluate the impact of the PBL programme on QoL. METHODS: 207 consecutive patients <70 years of age with a recent event of CAD were randomised to a PBL group (n=104) or a control group (n=103). In addition to standard treatment, the PBL patients participated in 13 group sessions during 1 year, where individual learning needs and behavioural changes were focused upon. QoL was measured by the Ladder of Life, Self-Rated Health (SRH), SF 36, and Cardiac Health Profile (CHP). RESULTS: Significant differences between the groups, favouring the PBL patients, were found by global instruments: more optimistic expectations of the future QoL and a better general condition. No differences were found by SRH, SF 36 or subscales of CHP, but QoL increased in both groups during the year. CONCLUSIONS: The main outcome was that QoL improved in both groups with some effects favouring the PBL programme.