Need for instruction and support of the wives of patients with myocardial infarction.

The study investigates the need for instruction and support among wives of patients with myocardial infarction, applying the 'stress' theory. The data were gathered by questionnaires completed by 59 wives of patients with myocardial infarction. Feelings and symptoms indicative of stress did occur among wives of the patients. They assessed instruction especially concerning home care, as being inadequate. They stated that the support they received had come largely from their own relatives; more than one third of the respondents said they had received support from a nurse; one fifth said they had not received it from anyone. The 'instruction' model for wives and other relatives of patients with myocardial infarction, introduced at the end of the article, emphasizes the importance of relevant information and support to the close relatives of patients with myocardial infarction.