A conceptual definition of quality of life with a left ventricular assist device: Results from a qualitative study

Abstract Objective To develop a conceptual definition of quality of life (QoL) with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Background Conceptual and operational definitions of QoL with an LVAD are lacking. Methods A grounded theory method was used. Adult, outpatient LVAD recipients ( n  = 11) part...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Heart & lung 2014, Vol.43 (1), p.32-40
Main Authors: Sandau, Kristin E., PhD, RN, Hoglund, Barbara A., EdD, FNP-BC, Weaver, Carrie E., BSN, RN, CCRN-CMC/CSC, Boisjolie, Charlene, MA, RN, CCRP, Feldman, David, MD, PhD
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Activities of Daily Living
Adult
Aged
Cardiovascular
Cognition & reasoning
Conceptual definition
Critical Care
Female
Grounded theory
Heart failure
Heart Failure - therapy
Heart-Assist Devices - psychology
Humans
Left ventricular assist device (LVAD)
Male
Middle Aged
Patient-reported outcomes
Pulmonary/Respiratory
Qualitative
Qualitative Research
Quality of Life
Quality of life (QoL)
Spirituality
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Summary:Abstract Objective To develop a conceptual definition of quality of life (QoL) with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Background Conceptual and operational definitions of QoL with an LVAD are lacking. Methods A grounded theory method was used. Adult, outpatient LVAD recipients ( n  = 11) participated twice in individual or paired interviews. Results A conceptual definition of QoL while living with an LVAD was established as: “Being well enough to do and enjoy day-to-day activities that are important to me.” Participants described 5 important life domains consistent with QoL literature: physical, emotional, social, cognitive, and spiritual/meaning. However, participants identified unique concerns not addressed by generic or heart failure disease specific measures typically used in the LVAD population. Conclusion Existing generic and heart-failure specific QoL measures are not adequate for understanding QoL among LVAD patients. Cognition and spiritual/meaning domains were significant; these need inclusion for comprehensive QoL assessment in the LVAD population.
ISSN:0147-9563
1527-3288
DOI:10.1016/j.hrtlng.2013.09.004