Women’s experiences of living with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator

Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are used to treat lethal arrhythmias in patients identified as at risk of sudden cardiac death and can form an additional part of a cardiac resynchronisation therapy device (CRT) which is used for the treatment of heart failure. These cardiac devices are becoming increasingly utilized within New Zealand and internationally. Quantitative research has shown an increased risk of psychological harm and reduced quality of life with an ICD, however, evolving ICD technology may affect current experiences. There is no qualitative research on New Zealanders with ICDs and little qualitative research on women’s experiences with an ICD, which this study aimed to rectify. This research used qualitative methodology to explore the experiences of women living with an ICD for more than six months. Semi structured individual interviews were conducted with 14 women to capture a range of experiences of New Zealand women living with an ICD. ICD indication, age, ethnicity, employment status and household composition were varied, with four women continuing to raise dependent children since their ICD implant. A wealth of information was shared by the participants. Data analysis identified four main themes for reporting: the effect of antecedent events leading to the ICD implant; the physical realities and practicalities of the ICD device; the positive value placed on interpersonal relationships; and the impact of contemplating mortality. Discussion focused on issues relevant to nursing that were identified by the women as having significance to their experience. Discussion topics include experiences of discharge following an ICD implant, engaging in physical activity, the impact of driving restrictions, the impact of being a mother, depression and emotional adjustment and considerations concerning end of life care. These findings provide a detailed perspective of the experiences and issues facing New Zealand women living with an ICD. Recommendations could be used by nurses to provide more targeted information and support to women receiving ICDs.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Nursing

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Grantor

Eastern Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2016

Author dc:creator

• Craig, Nicola

• New Zealand
• women
• implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
• ventricular arrhythmias
• heart disease
• experience
• interviews

Statement dc:rights

• All rights reserved

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10652/6355

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:null:10652/6355