The Effects of Self-Efficacy on Cognitive Function in Patients with Acute Stroke: Verification of the Medicating Effect of Family Support

Background: Post–stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is a common consequence of stroke. Many factors that affect cognitive function are known, but the effects of self-efficacy and family support have not been identified. Objectives: This study was a descriptive correlation investigation to determine the mediating effects of family support on the relationship between self-efficacy and cognitive function in stroke patients. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study recruited 339 adult patients with acute stroke. Data were collected using structured questionnaires between January and June 2020 and analyzed by multiple regression analysis using SPSS 25.0. The mediating effect of resilience on the relationship between emotional labor and job satisfaction was analyzed using multiple regression analysis according to Baron and Kenny’s procedure. Results: In this study, self-efficacy in patients with acute stroke showed a positive relationship with cognitive function (r=.467, p<.05) and family support (r=.341, p<.001), and family support and cognitive function also showed a positive relationship (r=.356, p<.05). In addition, family support was shown to have a partial mediating effect on the relationship between self-efficacy and cognitive function in patients with acute stroke (β=.26, p<.001). Conclusions: To improve the cognitive function of acute stroke patients, their self-efficacy and family support must be evaluated, and interventions are necessary to enhance self-efficacy and improve family support.