The association between health literacy and readiness for hospital discharge among family caregivers of acute myocardial infarction patients

Abstract

Background

Family caregivers play a pivotal role in post-discharge care, yet their ability to manage this responsibility is influenced by their level of health literacy. However, limited research has examined the relationship between health literacy and family caregivers' preparedness for discharge in the context of acute myocardial infarction.

Aim

This study aimed to explore the association between health literacy and readiness for hospital discharge among family caregivers of acute myocardial infarction patients.

Methods

A cross-sectional design was employed, with 123 family caregivers of acute myocardial infarction patients recruited from three hospitals in Jordan. Data were collected using the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ) and the Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale-Family Caregiver Form (FamRHDS). Bivariate correlations and multiple linear regression were used to perform data analysis.

Results

Bivariate correlations analysis revealed significant positive associations between all nine health literacy domains and readiness for hospital discharge. Multiple linear regression indicated that three HLQ scales significantly predicted caregivers' readiness for hospital discharge, F (4, 122) = 32.02, p < .001, R² = 0.52, explaining 50 % of the variance.

Conclusion

Health literacy significantly impacts family caregivers' readiness for hospital discharge, particularly in the domains of social support, appraisal, and understanding of health information. Healthcare providers should incorporate health literacy assessments and interventions into discharge planning for acute myocardial infarction patients and their family caregivers. Tailoring education to caregivers' health literacy levels can improve post-discharge care, patient outcomes, and the overall quality of the care transition.