Abstract

PANEQUE SANCHEZ-TOSCANO, Inmaculada et al. To live with an implantable cardioverter defribrillator: a qualitative study on patients'experiences. Index Enferm [online]. 2014, vol.23, n.1-2, pp.31-35. ISSN 1699-5988.  https://dx.doi.org/10.4321/S1132-12962014000100007.

Objective: To know the experiences of patients with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator in the Electrophysiology and Arrhytmia Unit ("Virgen del Rocio" University Hospital Seville). Methods: A qualitative study by using semi-structured interviews with 11 people with ICDs. A content analysis considering research objectives, analytical categories, and those possibly emerging was carried out. Results: The identified issues were: the experience of living with an ICD, discharges, adaptation strategies, physical and emotional changes, as well as those affecting lifestyles, sex life, and driving ban. Conclusions: Although most of patients accept the device, identifying the variables affecting their adaptation, there are still some limitations resulting from physical, emotional, and lifestyle changes. Health professionals should assess potential adaptation difficulties or psychological disorders in order to provide necessary interventions.

Keywords : Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators; Patient Experience; Qualitative Research.