Perceived Social Support in Atrial Fibrillation Care: Implications for Nurse-Led Education and Follow-Up.

AIM: To describe the level, content and sources of perceived social support among adults with atrial fibrillation, and to identify clinical, lifestyle and care pathway factors associated with perceived support.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional survey design.

METHODS

Data were collected through an online survey disseminated across Finland in 2025 via the Finnish Heart Association's website and social media channels among adults with self-reported atrial fibrillation. Perceived social support was measured using the Social Support for Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Instrument, which assesses informational, emotional, and functional support. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and separate univariate General Linear Model analyses.

RESULTS

Participants reported low-to-moderate informational, emotional, and functional support. Patient education was received primarily from physicians, whereas nurse-delivered education was uncommon, and more than half of participants reported no scheduled follow-up visits. Informational support was strongest for disease consequences and medication information, while support related to treatment options and follow-up monitoring was lower. Emotional support was mainly received from family and friends, while functional support was stronger for self-monitoring than for medication management and structured follow-up. Ablation treatment was consistently associated with lower perceived support across all domains, whereas scheduled follow-up visits were associated with higher emotional support.

CONCLUSIONS

Perceived social support among adults with atrial fibrillation was uneven and embedded in the formal care pathway. Support gaps were evident in follow-up, nurse-delivered education, medication management, and practical atrial fibrillation-specific self-management.

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE: Cardiovascular nurses can strengthen atrial fibrillation care by providing structured patient education, emotional support, practical self-management support, and follow-up, particularly after ablation and during long-term care.

IMPACT: This study addresses the limited evidence on perceived social support among adults with atrial fibrillation. The findings suggest that support is unevenly integrated into atrial fibrillation care pathways and that nurse-led education and structured follow-up remain underused. The findings identify opportunities to strengthen atrial fibrillation care.

REPORTING METHOD: The study was reported according to the STROBE guideline for cross-sectional studies.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No Patient or Public Contribution.