Heart Disease has become the leading cause of death in the United States. The surgical treatment of this condition, Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting, has enabled increasing numbers of patients to return to a normal lifestyle. This routinely performed procedure can, however, evoke negative emotions such as anxiety that can reduce the expected outcome. This study examines the relationship between the patient's perception of the degree of readiness to learn and the associated anxiety levels using Bandura's Self Efficacy Theory as the framework. The instruments used will be the Perceived Stress Scale, Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery Patient Learning Needs Inventory, and a demographic data sheet. The study will be conducted in a Midwestern hospital and consist of a population of 500 adults who will undergo elective Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting and are willing to participate. The anticipated sample size is 50 men and women. Participants will receive a cover letter and a consent form. Data collection will occur in the hospital setting. Participation will be voluntary and participants will be able to withdraw from the study at any time. Data will remain anonymous. Correlational procedures will be used to analyze data. This study is significant because it will provide knowledge for health care providers about the most appropriate time to present patient education.