학술논문
The experiences among bereaved family members after a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) deactivation.
Document Type
Academic Journal
Author
Kelemen A; Medstar Washington Hospital Center, USA. Electronic address: anne.m.kelemen@medstar.net.; Groninger H; Section of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, MedStar Palliative Care, Georgetown University, 110 Irving Street NW, Room 2A68, Washington, DC 20010, USA.; Yearwood EL; Georgetown University School of Nursing, 3700 Reservoir Rd, NW., Washington, DC 20057, USA.; French C; Georgetown University School of Nursing, USA.; Bither C; Adv HF Program, Suite 2A-7, Medstar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA.; Rao A; Section of Palliative Care, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Georgetown University School of Medicine, USA.; Anderson KM; PhD in Nursing Program, Georgetown University, School of Nursing, 3700 Reservoir Road, 245 St. Mary's Hall, Washington, DC 20057, USA.
Source
Publisher: Mosby Country of Publication: United States NLM ID: 0330057 Publication Model: Print-Electronic Cited Medium: Internet ISSN: 1527-3288 (Electronic) Linking ISSN: 01479563 NLM ISO Abbreviation: Heart Lung Subsets: MEDLINE
Subject
Language
English
Abstract
Background: The use of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) is increasing with an estimated 2500 devices implanted each year. When burdens of the LVAD outweigh benefits, most individuals with LVADs will undergo deactivation in the hospital setting. While the decision to deactivate an LVAD is considered an ethical practice, little is known about the experience and needs of bereaved family members.
Objective: To investigate the experiences of bereaved family members of patients who died following LVAD deactivation.
Methods: In this qualitative study, 11 family members of patients who underwent LVAD deactivation were interviewed. The semi-structured interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached and relevant themes emerged.
Results: This qualitative study was conducted to understand the experience of family members before, during and after the patient underwent LVAD deactivation, including their perceptions of engagement with the healthcare team. Analysis revealed six overarching themes from the experience, including 1) hope for survival, 2) communication, 3) spirituality and faith, 4) absence of physical suffering, 5) positive relationships with staff, 6) post-death care needs.
Conclusion: Bereaved family members of patients undergoing LVAD deactivation have unique lived experiences and concerns. This study highlights the importance of effective communication not only near end-of-life but throughout the LVAD experience. While the positive relationships with staff and the absence of physical suffering were strengths identified by bereaved caregivers, there is an opportunity for improvement, particularly during the decision-making and post-death periods.
Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors have nothing to disclose.
(Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Inc.)
Objective: To investigate the experiences of bereaved family members of patients who died following LVAD deactivation.
Methods: In this qualitative study, 11 family members of patients who underwent LVAD deactivation were interviewed. The semi-structured interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached and relevant themes emerged.
Results: This qualitative study was conducted to understand the experience of family members before, during and after the patient underwent LVAD deactivation, including their perceptions of engagement with the healthcare team. Analysis revealed six overarching themes from the experience, including 1) hope for survival, 2) communication, 3) spirituality and faith, 4) absence of physical suffering, 5) positive relationships with staff, 6) post-death care needs.
Conclusion: Bereaved family members of patients undergoing LVAD deactivation have unique lived experiences and concerns. This study highlights the importance of effective communication not only near end-of-life but throughout the LVAD experience. While the positive relationships with staff and the absence of physical suffering were strengths identified by bereaved caregivers, there is an opportunity for improvement, particularly during the decision-making and post-death periods.
Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors have nothing to disclose.
(Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Inc.)