The experience of younger adults following myocardial infarction.

The aim of this study was to elucidate the meaning of the experience of younger people (< 55 years) during their first year following a myocardial infarction. We analyzed 17 interviews using a phenomenological-hermeneutic method. The core theme and central phenomenon was the everyday fight to redress the balance in life, which encompassed an existential, physical, and emotional battle to regain a foothold in daily life. The aftermath of a life-threatening event involved a process of transition while at the same time creating a new meaning in life. Lack of energy and its impact on the complex interplay of midlife combined with unreasonable demands from employers and health care professionals seemed to color the experience of the informants. The knowledge gained in this study can constitute a valuable contribution to overall quality assurance in nursing care and the development of nursing interventions for the cardiac rehabilitation of younger patients.