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. Author manuscript; available in PMC: 2014 Jan 1.
Published in final edited form as: Heart Lung. 2012 Oct 30;42(1):32–39. doi: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2012.08.004

Table 3.

Themes and Sample Quotes from Intervention Nurses and Caregivers.

Themes Nurses' sample quotes Caregivers' sample quotes
1. Use of coaching strategies in delivering the program was valuable to caregivers.
The teach-back method determined if caregivers had learned or needed reinforcement.		 “Develop trust” and nurse reinforcing reading food labels, monitor daily weight…”
“The teach-back method was valuable because it helps validate whether the caregivers understand the content.” 		Caregivers reiterated:
“It is important to keep on top of symptoms, to make and keep doctor appointments.”
“I know it is important now to weigh him [patient] every day and write it down.”
2. The program provided caregivers with specific information.
Caregivers were able to monitor the patient weight, blood pressure, medication, reportable HF symptoms and their own moods.		 “Caregivers started doing blood pressure measures and monitoring daily weight.” “Caregivers now read food labels for sodium.”
“Caregivers comfortable calling doctors and reporting HF symptoms for the patient.”
“The advance directive discussion was an eye opener to caregivers.” 		“The diary checklist prompts me to pay more attention to symptoms and needs of the patient.”
“I take care of myself. I purposely take time for myself,”
“I will talk about an advance directive with the doctor….”
3. Program content and materials were helpful to caregivers. “They (caregivers) used the guide book as a reference when they needed more information and shared it with friends and family members.”
“Preparing for emergencies was good;” “identifying roles was helpful, especially the roles of the dietitian and social worker.” 		“… The book is our reference. “We have looked several things up, like the AHA diet and caregiver websites.”
“Knowing different options and organizations was helpful.”
“I know what I'd do in case of emergency…”
4. The coaching program was easily delivered via telephone.
Caregivers were comfortable and satisfied with the telephone coaching method.		 “A caregiver told me that having a one-on-one talk with someone who knows [you] by name made a difference.”
“Training protocol was helpful, well organized and easy to follow.” 		“I feel sad we have to stop our weekly talks.”
“I have my questions answered this week, and I am looking forward to your call next week.”
5. The coaching program could be translated into clinical practice. “It would be feasible and advantageous to use this coaching technique in clinical practice, but time constraints and cost may pose a challenge.” This theme was not found in caregivers' telephone interview.