Gender differences and fears in patients awaiting coronary artery bypass grafting

The study aimed at ascertaining the gender differences and fears among pati ents awaiting coronary artery bypass grafting. Data were collected using a mailed questionnaire from patients (n = 207) sc heduled for coronary artery bypass grafting at one hospital. Intensity of f ear was measured on a 10-point scale including 12 objects of fear. The results showed that demographic data, lifestyle and functional capacity differed between the sexes. Patients' fears differed with respect to their objects and intensity, with women reporting more intense fears. Men also h ad fears, but the objects of fear differed from those in women. Apart from gender, the intensity of fear was associated with physical exercise, emotio nal problems and depression. Nursing interventions could be developed to meet the different needs for in formation and support, especially among women but also among men, to reliev e their fears during the wait for coronary artery bypass grafting.