Factors related to self-care ability in stroke patients at Nong Phai Hospital, Phetchabun

Abstract

This descriptive research aimed to examine self-care ability, knowledge, attitudes, and personal factors, as well as to identify the factors associated with self-care ability among patients with stroke. The sample consisted of 123 stroke patients selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire comprising four parts: (1) personal information, (2) knowledge, (3) attitude, and (4) self-care ability. Data were analyzed using percentages, means, and standard deviations. Relationships between variables were examined using the Chi-square test, Fisher’s Exact Test, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient.

The findings revealed that most participants were married (76.42%) and had a primary school education (48.78%). Marital status and education level were significantly associated with self-care ability among stroke patients at Nong Phai Hospital, Phetchabun Province (p = 0.007 and p < 0.001, respectively). Knowledge was found to be at a low level (Mean = 14.30, SD = 4.85), attitude at a high level (Mean = 3.77, SD = 0.43), and self-care ability at a moderate level (Mean = 3.66, SD = 0.48). Both knowledge and attitude regarding stroke were significantly correlated with self-care ability (r = 0.391, p < 0.001 and r = 0.619, p < 0.001, respectively).

The study suggests that healthcare personnel should possess the necessary knowledge, competencies, and skills to support and promote key factors influencing self-care among stroke patients, thereby enhancing their ability to manage their health more effectively.