Self-Efficacy of Patients at High Risk for Stroke in Reducing Risk Factors

Abstract

Uke Pemila, Ratna Sitorus, Agung Waluyo, Sutanto Priyo Hastono.

Background: Stroke is the second leading cause of death and the third main cause of disability worldwide. It accounts for 5.7 million deaths every year, and 15 million people suffering from stroke have physical disabilities, of which 77% are first strokes (1,2).
Purpose: This study aimed to identify and explore patients’ self-efficacy in reducing the risk factors for stroke. This qualitative research was conducted using the descriptive phenomenology method. Nine participants were selected by purposive sampling at the Depok City Health Center.
Result: The result of this study revealed three themes that describe how the self-efficacy (self-confidence) of patients who are at high risk for stroke helps reduce their risk factors, namely, 1) trying to have a healthy lifestyle, 2) acknowledging unhealthy behaviors, and 3) having self-efficacy in reducing the risk factors for stroke.
Conclusion: This study found various false perceptions related to stroke risk factors and self-care. Therefore, behaviors that are believed to improve health are not showing their expected impact.
Recommendation: Efforts should be made to increase patients’ self-efficacy. These include increasing patients’ knowledge, motivation, and skills in taking care of themselves to reduce stroke risk factors and thus avoid stroke.