Download Edgar Allan Poe, "The Pit and the Pendulum", and Ventricular Assist

Abstract ID: 66
Edgar Allan Poe, "The Pit and the Pendulum", and Ventricular Assist Devices
Author Information:
Authors List:
Presenting Author: Cheryl Zambroski
Additional Author: Pamela Combs
Additional Author: Sherill Cronin
Additional Author: Carol Pfeffer
Presenting Author: Cheryl Hoyt Zambroski
Address: University of South Florida College of Nursing 12901 Bruce B. Downs MDC 22
Tampa, FL 33647
USA
Ph: 813-774-6436
Fax:
Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of South Florida
Additional Author: Pamela S. Combs
Address: University of Louisville 12901 Bruce B. Downs MDC 22
Louisville, KY 42092
USA
Ph: 812-949-7289
Fax:
Email: pscombs)[email protected]
Institution: University of Louisville
Additional Author: Sherill N Cronin
Address: Bellarmine University 12901 Bruce B. Downs MDC 22
Louisville, KY 40206
USA
Ph: 502-425-5504
Fax:
Email: [email protected]
Institution:
Additional Author: Carol Pfeffer
Address: Bellarmine University 12901 Bruce B. Downs MDC 22
Louisville, KY 40206
USA
Ph: 502-425-5504
Fax:
Email: [email protected]
Institution:
Abstract Information
Presentation Preference:
SNRS Poster Presentation
Abstract Categories:
Interest Group: Researchers in Clinical Settings
Thematic Areas: Chronic illness
Introduction:
Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs) are being used with increasing frequency in
patients with heart failure. VADs are not without adversity, however, as high
post-operative morbidity and mortality are of major concern. For those who
survive, little is known about the experience from the patients' perspective.
The purpose of this qualitative, descriptive study was to gain a better understanding
of the experience of living with a VAD
Method(s):
Through the process of open-ended interviewing, data were collected and analyzed
on an ongoing basis to generate conceptual categories. A key informant articulated
his experience of living with a VAD through his analogy to Edgar Allen Poe's
The Pit and the Pendulum. Furthermore, language of co-informants corresponded
closely with themes emerging in Poe's short story. During analysis, a consultant
from the English Department provided additional analysis of The Pit and the
Pendulum as it related to each theme.
Results:
Six adults with an average age of 58.8 years participated. Both men were Caucasian;
two women were Caucasian and two were African-American. There was wide variation
in the length of device implantation. Four key themes: Facing the Unknown,
Feeling Confined, Living with Fear, and Hope for the Future emerged.
Discussion:
Comparison of the experience of living with a VAD to the tale of Poe's Narrator
does not provide an easy image for nurses who care for this population. Yet,
diagnosis of heart failure can, in fact, be a sentence of sorts: a sentence
to an uncertain future, physical decline, even to death. The findings of this
study can help clinicians to target interventions toward reducing the uncertainty
associated with living with a VAD, providing opportunities to reduce the sense
of confinement, recognizing and reducing patient fears, and providing and supporting
hope for the future through reduction of symptoms and extending life or through
providing a peaceful death.
Research Completed :
Yes
Abstract History:
-This material has been presented or accepted for presentation in whole or in
part at this or another scientific meeting.
-Details: USF (local presentation)
Financial Disclosure:
Have a financial arrangement or affiliation with commercial companies whose
products may be mentioned in this material?
No
FDA Disclosure:
Cleared: Yes
Non-Exclusive License:
Accepted Terms: Yes
Submitted By:
[email protected]