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Adjustment to the need for an ICD.

McCaig, Marie; Orr, Julie; Snowden, Austyn; Collins, Garry; Thomson, Annette; Marland, Glenn

Authors

Marie McCaig

Julie Orr

Garry Collins

Annette Thomson

Glenn Marland



Abstract

The implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is an electrical medical device designed to monitor the electrical activity of the heart and is set to deliver a programmed, corrective defibrillatory discharge, or shock, on encountering abnormal cardiac rhythms. Adjustment factors: Individual characteristics, including age, gender, support and personality, impact on how an individual adjusts to the device. It is clear that adjustment to the device is a personal and individual process. Coping strategies, attitude towards and perception of the ICD also influence acceptance. Vulnerability factors: Chronic stress has a negative impact on the heart and the vascular system. Stress is a natural bodily response to danger and is mediated by the sympathetic and parasympathetic system. In relation to the cardiovascular system, constant stress, mediated by catecholamines such as adrenaline, elevate heart rate and blood pressure causing increased oxygen demand, electrical instability of the heart muscle and spasm of coronary blood vessels. Role of the nurse: The nurse needs to recognise the signs and symptoms of stress and distress, and use their knowledge and skills to provide both values and evidence based practice. Referral for psychosocial support should be considered, particularly where risk factors are identified. Reflection and collaborative working can support the adjustment process.

Citation

McCaig, M., Orr, J., Snowden, A., Collins, G., Thomson, A., & Marland, G. (2014). Adjustment to the need for an ICD. British Journal of Cardiac Nursing, 9(3), 117-122. https://doi.org/10.12968/bjca.2014.9.3.117

Journal Article Type Article
Online Publication Date Mar 11, 2014
Publication Date 2014-03
Deposit Date Aug 14, 2015
Print ISSN 1749-6403
Electronic ISSN 2052-2207
Publisher Mark Allen Healthcare
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 9
Issue 3
Pages 117-122
DOI https://doi.org/10.12968/bjca.2014.9.3.117
Keywords Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD); Vulnerability; Quality of life Adjustment;
Public URL http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/id/eprint/8980
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.12968/bjca.2014.9.3.117