SUMMARY
The research focus of Pamela J. McCabe, Ph.D., R.N., is to increase knowledge about the cognitive, emotional and behavioral responses of patients with atrial fibrillation, its symptoms and treatments. Dr. McCabe's goal is to develop and investigate cognitive behavioral interventions that reduce complications of undetected atrial fibrillation and support effective self-management of atrial fibrillation.
Dr. McCabe is currently investigating the effect of a cognitive behavioral intervention to improve awareness of atrial fibrillation in older adults at risk of developing atrial fibrillation. In her previous research, Dr. McCabe has described the association of illness beliefs or perceptions and coping on treatment seeking for symptoms of atrial fibrillation, psychological distress and symptoms in patients with recurrent, symptomatic atrial fibrillation.
Focus areas
- Self-management of atrial fibrillation
- Treatment-seeking delay for atrial fibrillation
- Interventions to promote early detection of atrial fibrillation
- Psychological and behavioral responses to living with atrial fibrillation
Significance to patient care
Dr. McCabe's research program is centered on improving the care of patients with atrial fibrillation by increasing knowledge about patients' responses to atrial fibrillation. With this knowledge, interventions can be developed to help patients seek treatment for atrial fibrillation before complications occur, to educate and counsel them about managing their atrial fibrillation, and to help patients cope with the challenges of living with atrial fibrillation.
Professional highlights
- Member, Advisory Panel for Atrial Fibrillation Patient Education, American Heart Association, 2015-present
- Fellow, American Heart Association, 2015
- Member, European Heart Rhythm Association Consensus Statement Writing Group, 2014-2015
- Fellow, Seminar on the Epidemiology and Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, American Heart Association, 2014
- Member, Get With The Guidelines-Atrial Fibrillation Clinical Work Group, American Heart Association, 2012-present