title: Management of adult patients with a left ventricular assist device.
abstract: The number of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantations is growing as a result of increased waiting periods for cardiac transplantation and the decreased availability of organ donors. Furthermore, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved permanent LVAD support. After an acute hospitalization, patients with LVADs may need prolonged convalescence in a healthcare facility because they have complex medical needs and are physically disabled. Admission criteria need to be developed as essential patient and nursing competencies need to be defined as a part of a successful LVAD program in an acute rehabilitation center. Acute rehabilitation centers can help patients with LVADs transition to a home setting.
authors.affiliation: Mechanical Assist Device Department, Sharp Memorial Hospital, 7901 Frost Street, San Diego, CA 92123, USA.
authors.forename: Marcia
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Stahovich
authors.forename: Suzanne
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Chillcott
authors.forename: Laura
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Ferber
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000359:Aftercare / Q000379:methods*; D000368:Aged; D002140:California; D009202:Cardiomyopathies / Q000601:surgery; D003289:Convalescence; D006353:Heart-Assist Devices; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D020380:Needs Assessment; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D015596:Nutrition Assessment; D010343:Patient Admission; D010351:Patient Discharge; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011182:Postoperative Care / Q000379:methods* / Q000451:nursing / Q000534:rehabilitation; D012047:Rehabilitation Centers / Q000458:organization & administration*; D019145:Rehabilitation Nursing / Q000193:education / Q000379:methods*; D014850:Waiting Lists