Patients' need of safety and security after implantation of cardioverter-defibrillator

This work deals with the patients' need of safety and security after the implantation of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). Any different heart rhythm from the physiological sinus rhythm is called an arrhythmia. ICD implantation is one of the treatment options for arrhythmias. However, with ICD implantation come changes not only physically but also mentally. And with that comes the fulfillment of needs, which are often neglected in patients with implanted ICDs. For this bachelor thesis, four goals were set which were supposed to find out how the lives of patients change after ICD implantation, how patients change their view on safety and security after ICD implantation, how the education of patients undergoing ICD implantation is carried out, and to map the mental support which is given to patients with ICD. Based on the set goals, four research questions were asked. A qualitative survey method was chosen for the research. Data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with patients. A total of 9 patients with implanted ICDs were questioned. The results of the study showed that the lifestyle of patients with ICD hadn't changed much and remained the same as before the implantation of ICD. The patients were mainly affected by changes in physical activities, driving and sexual life. It was also found that the view of safety and security has changed for the better in some patients, and they feel safer after ICD implantation, but some patients weren't aware of any changes. The view on safety and security was influenced by certain factors which included education, communication, nursing care, but also the psychological support of patients. The research found that patients were educated before implantation by their cardiologist, and for the vast majority of them, education was sufficient. Psychologically, the patients showed changes, mainly fear and anxiety, but also anxiety. As for the care of the medical staff, this care was very good for most patients and thus helped to improve the whole situation. Another finding was that all patients were supported by their families at all times. The work was created mainly as an information source for patients with implanted ICDs and medical school students