Application of a sedentary behavior intervention program based on protection motivation theory in elderly patients with coronary heart diseaseZhang Jinjing，Zhang Yu，Shen Ying，Yao Yan，Zhang Jiahui, Chen Mingxing.School of Nursing, School of Public Health， Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, China Abstract: Objective To explore the application effect of a sedentary behavior intervention program based on protection motivation theory in elderly patients with coronary heart disease. Methods By convenience sampling method, 60 elderly patients with coronary heart disease in two wards of cardiology department were selected, and 30 patients in ward one were included in the control group, while 30 patients in ward two were included in the experimental group. The control group received routine health education, while the experimental group additionally implemented a sedentary behavior intervention program based on the theory of protection motivation. The intervention effect was evaluated at one day before discharge, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after discharge. Results One month and 3 months after the intervention, there were statistically significant diffe-rences in the total time and maximum duration of sedentary behavior, the total number of steps per day, 6-minute walk distance, and the score of exercise self-efficacy between the two groups (all P<0.05). Conclusion Implementation of the sedentary behavior intervention program based on protection motivation theory can effectively reduce the level of sedentary behavior in elderly patients with coronary heart disease, increase their physical activity and exercise endurance, and enhance their exercise self-efficacy.