Perspectives of the person with mitral valve prolapse syndrome: a study of self-care needs derived from a health deviation.

Epidemiological studies in the United States indicate that 5% of the population or nearly 7 million people have Mitral Valve Prolapse. This incidence has also been confirmed by British physicians. Approximately half of these persons seek medical care for treatment of symptoms. Persons with symptoms are often said to have "Mitral Valve Prolapse Syndrome." The purpose of this study was to describe experiences and self-care needs of persons diagnosed with Mitral Valve Prolapse Syndrome (MVPS). In Phase I of the study, medical records of 124 subjects were reviewed to identify the medical experience and typical symptoms associated with MVPS. In Phase II, 20 subjects with typical symptoms were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire based on health deviation self-care requisites developed by Orem. Results of this pilot study indicate that interviewed subjects with MVPS frequently had unresolved health concerns and were seeking help. Nursing assistance may therefore be needed to help such clients understand this health deviation, to make decisions regarding appropriate actions, and to accomplish self-care actions.