Addressing the functional needs of left ventricular assist device candidates: Development and feasibility of an occupational therapy pre-operative evaluation

Over 27,000 left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) were implanted in the United States in the past decade.1 Daily living with an LVAD involves complex demands such as managing power sources, monitoring for complications, integrating the device into daily activities, and preparing for emergencies.2 Impaired cognition and frailty are sequelae of end-stage heart failure (HF) that further challenge daily living.3 –6 Destination therapy is now the most common LVAD indication, and since 2018, LVAD patients are older and have higher comorbidity burdens than in previous years.

Source: Heart and Lung - January 31, 2024 Category: Intensive Care Authors: Jessica D. Asiello, Christina M. Kelley, Kellie Cannone, Lauren McInnis, Abigail Begin, Marissa Dittrich, Erin Donovan, Kimberly Beatty, Nicole Lam, Alyssa Taubert, John Wong Source Type: research