Experiences with end-of-life care with a left ventricular assist device: An integrative review

Heart failure (HF) is a growing epidemic in the United States. By 2030, the prevalence of HF will grow over 46%, with over 8 million Americans estimated to have a HF diagnosis.1 Despite the increasing prevalence of the condition, and improved guideline directed medical therapy, the five-year mortality rate of HF is estimated to be 50%.2 Since the Food and Drug Administration first approved left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) for use as bridge to heart transplantation in 1994, the science and rapid utilization of these devices has grown exponentially.

Source: Heart and Lung - March 17, 2020 Category: Intensive Care Authors: Jessica Harman Thompson, Debra Moser Source Type: research