The status quo and influence of self-management behaviors in convalescent stroke patients

Abstract Objective The aims of this study were to investigate the status quo of self-management behaviors in stroke patients at the recovery stage and to explore its influencing factors. Methods A total of 440 hospitalized convalescent stroke patients were recruited and investigated using the Basic Situation Questionnaire, Self-management Behavior Scale of Stroke, Stroke Prevention Knowledge Questionnaire and Social Support Rating Scale. Results The mean self-management behavior score was (151.95±23.58), and dimensions in descending order were as follows: dietary management, drug safety management, social function and interpersonal relationships, life management, emotion management, rehabilitation exercise management and disease management. Five regional self-management behavior scores were statistically significant, and the scores from Minnan and Minzhong of the Fujian province, China, were higher than the others. Gender, age, family income and self-management behavior were significantly correlated ( P <0.05); educational level, stroke knowledge level, social support level and self-management behavior were positively correlated, and the difference was statistically significant ( P <0.01). Conclusions The overall self-management level of convalescent stroke patients should be improved to strengthen health education; focus on the educational level, which is relatively low; strengthen the social support system of patients; stimulate the enthusiasm and initiative of self-management disease patients to promote disease rehabilitation and improve the quality of life.