Medical devices and attachment: holistic healing in the age of invasive technology.
The environment is filled with wonderful examples of medical technology that provide emergency life support, improve well-being, and offer the possibility of a longer and more productive life. But these devices are no longer only a part of the external environment. As technology advances, more devices are becoming a part of the internal environment (i.e., our bodies) as well. For some people an implanted mechanical device, such as a cardiac pacemaker or a cardioverter defibrillator, is readily accepted; for others it may be seen as an encroachment. It may be a symbol of loss and debilitation or of independence and resilience. What makes the difference? How can nurses facilitate a healthy adjustment and healing in an era permeated with technology? A discussion of the symbolism, related theory, and nursing implications is provided.
Beery
T
T
Baas
L
L
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001828:Body Image; D006353:Heart-Assist Devices; D018939:Holistic Nursing; D006801:Humans; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D009769:Object Attachment; D010138:Pacemaker, Artificial / Q000523:psychology*; D013561:Symbolism