Self-care Behavior Based on Integrated Behavioral Model in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach

Abstract

Background: There is limited research exploring the behavioral intentions, beliefs, and application of theoretical models in relation to self-care in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Objective: This study aimed to identify the factors that influence self-care behavior in patients with AF. Methods: The study used an integrated behavioral model and collected data from 216 patients diagnosed with AF. Data were analyzed using SPSS 24.0 and AMOS/WIN 24.0 to verify the fit of the hypothesis model, confirm factor analysis, and the validity of the hypothesis itself. Results: Self-care behavioral intention (β = 0.433, p <.001) and habit (β = 0.395, p =.005) had a significant direct effect, while instrumental attitude (β = 0.077, p =.045), injunctive norm (β = 0.084, p =.037), and self-efficacy (β = 0.249, p =.011) had a significant indirect effect on self-care behavior, explaining 64.4% of the variance. Conclusion: The final model validated the factors that impact self-care behavior in patients with AF, highlighting the importance of fostering positive recognition of instrumental attitude, bolstering social influence and self-efficacy through significant individuals to improve self-care behavior. It is recommended to create an intervention program that encourages intentions and motivations for self-care behavior and incorporates tactics to make self-care behavior a habit. The study’s path diagram can serve as a conceptual framework for designing strategies to enhance self-care behavior in patients with AF. © The Author(s) 2023.