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Review
. 2016 Sep-Oct;45(5):397-405.
doi: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2016.05.035. Epub 2016 Jun 21.

Adaptation and coping in patients living with an LVAD: A metasynthesis

Martha Abshire  1 , Roslyn Prichard  2 , Mia Cajita  3 , Michelle DiGiacomo  2 , Cheryl Dennison Himmelfarb  4
Affiliations
Review

Adaptation and coping in patients living with an LVAD: A metasynthesis

Martha Abshire et al. Heart Lung. 2016 Sep-Oct.

Abstract

Objective: To synthesize information supporting coping and adaptation of LVAD patients and to identify opportunities for future interventions.

Background: Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) patients demonstrate improvements in quality of life and functional status, but qualitative research has not been meaningfully integrated.

Methods: Qualitative meta-synthesis using Lazarus and Folkmans' Transactional Model of stress and coping.

Results: Four distinct stages of adaptation were identified: Pre-LVAD, Implant Hospitalization, Early Home Adaptation and Late Home Adaptation. Each stage includes tasks in physical, psychological and social domains. Two themes emerged: 1) Primary Appraisal: Every stage is a new challenge and 2) Secondary Appraisal: Routines are achievable, emotions are more difficult.

Conclusions: Emotional challenges including fear and anxiety related to life-limiting illness and changed social roles need to be honestly addressed. Individuals living with LVAD achieve a sense of independence, enjoy social interactions and meaningful activities through addressing practical and emotional problems to facilitate coping.

Keywords: Adaptation; Coping; Heart failure; LVAD; Left Ventricular Assist Device.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Literature Review and Inclusion
Figure 2
Figure 2
LVAD Transactional Model of Stress and Coping
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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