Predictors of referral to cardiac rehabilitation and cardiac exercise self-efficacy.

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) has known benefits after myocardial infarction (MI) or coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). Yet, only a small percentage of patients are referred for outpatient CR after hospital discharge. This study investigates patient characteristics related to referral to CR and cardiac exercise self-efficacy, a salient predictor of health behavior change and maintenance. Two hundred nineteen patients enrolled in the study. Of the 185 patients who were CR candidates, 74 were referred to CR. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify variables related to CR referral. Results indicate that patient characteristics of having had fewer MIs or CABGs, having attended CR in the past, and being less physically active during leisure time are related to an increased likelihood of being referred to CR. Multiple regression analysis indicates that leisure physical activity is a predictor of cardiac exercise self-efficacy. Implications for nurses who recruit patients for CR are discussed.