Perceptions of Recurrence Risk Among Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: A Qualitative Study.

AIMS The study aims to investigate patients' perceptions of recurrence risk associated with atrial fibrillation, with the goal of establishing a theoretical foundation for developing future measurement scale and intervention strategies. DESIGN A qualitative interview study. METHODS Seventeen patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation at a Grade-A tertiary hospital participated in semi-structured, in-depth interviews conducted between October and December 2024. Participants were selected via purposive sampling. The data were analysed employing thematic analysis in accordance with Colaizzi's method. The study adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist. RESULTS The perceptions of recurrence risk among patients with atrial fibrillation can be summarised into five themes: (1) perceived likelihood of recurrence, (2) perceived severity of recurrence, (3) perceived triggers of recurrence, (4) emotional reaction to recurrence, and (5) efficacy perception of managing recurrence risk. CONCLUSION Perceptions of recurrence risk among patients with atrial fibrillation are diverse and often underestimated due to limited knowledge and subjective symptom interpretation, affecting health behaviours. Understanding patients' subjective appraisals, emotions, and perceived efficacy is essential. Validated assessment tools and tailored risk communication may enhance self-management and support targeted interventions. IMPACT This study provides critical insights into how atrial fibrillation patients perceive their risk of recurrence. It also provides a theoretical foundation for creating validated assessment tools and tailoring individualised health education and intervention programmes. PATIENT CONTRIBUTION Patients were involved in the study design, data collection, and interpretation of findings. Their contributions included providing feedback on the initial interview guide to ensure relevance and clarity, participating in in-depth interviews to share their lived experiences with atrial fibrillation recurrence, and offering reflections on key themes emerging from the data.