Satisfaction of patients hospitalized in cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery with Rehabilitation Nursing

Soraia Rodrigues; Ana Cristina Martins Silva Alferes Vermelho; Fátima Luísa Sousa Gomes Fontes; Ana Raquel Ramos Carvalho; Sandra Maria Cruz Pestana

doi:10.33194/rper.2026.43762

Authors

Soraia Nicola Rodrigues Escola Superior de Enfermagem do Tâmega e Sousa, iHealth4Well-Being Research Unit, Gandra, Portugal https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7338-7822
Ana Vermelho Unidade Local de Saúde Gaia/Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8023-3060
Luísa Fontes Unidade Local de Saúde Gaia/Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal https://orcid.org/0009-0002-3268-2491
Ana Carvalho Unidade Local de Saúde Gaia/Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal https://orcid.org/0009-0009-2451-6996
Sandra Pestana Unidade Local de Saúde Gaia/Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1983-1843

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33194/rper.2026.43762

Keywords:

Patient satisfaction, Rehabilitation nursing, Cardiology, Thoracic surgery, Quality of health care

Abstract

Introduction: Patient satisfaction is a key indicator of healthcare quality, reflecting adherence to therapy and health outcomes. In hospital settings, satisfaction with rehabilitation nursing care is particularly relevant, given the role of these professionals in promoting functionality and autonomy.

Methodology: A descriptive, cross-sectional, quantitative study was conducted in Cardiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery wards of a hospital in Northern Portugal. The sample included 243 participants (73.3% men; mean age = 63.9 ± 12.1 years; mean length of stay = 7.5 ± 5.1 days). The Questionnaire of Satisfaction with Rehabilitation Nursing Care (QSEnf-10), validated for the Portuguese population, was applied. The scale showed high internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.894).

Results: Very high levels of global satisfaction were found. The most valued dimensions were interpersonal relations (90.9% “very satisfied”) and professionalism (90.5%). The least valued aspect was the time dedicated by the rehabilitation nurse specialist (78.6% “very satisfied”; 20.6% “satisfied”).

Discussion: The results are consistent with national and international studies regarding high satisfaction with rehabilitation nursing care. However, the time dedicated to patients emerges as an area for improvement, highlighting the need to adjust staffing levels and strengthen continuity of care after discharge.

Conclusion: Satisfaction of patients admitted to cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery units highlights the distinctive role of rehabilitation nurse specialists, reinforcing the importance of person-centered strategies and optimization of human resources.

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