The experiences of adults living with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator for cardiovascular disease: a systematic review of qualitative evidence protocol.

Abstract

REVIEW QUESTION / OBJECTIVE The objective of the review is to explore the everyday life experiences of adult individuals living with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator for cardiovascular disease. INCLUSION CRITERIA Types of participants This review will focus on adults who are 18 years or older and have had an implantable cardioverter defibrillator, including single and dual chamber implantable cardioverter defibrillators, for any duration of time for the management of cardiovascular disease. Participants with other co-morbidities or receiving other interventions in addition to the implantable cardioverter defibrillator will be included, regardless of the severity of cardiovascular disease. Types of intervention(s)/phenomena of interest This review will consider the phenomenon of interest of the everyday life experience of adults living with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. This may include how individuals living with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator conceptualize their sense of wellbeing, how they cope with having an implantable cardioverter defibrillator, and how they manage their daily lives within the context of family relationships, the workplace, everyday roles, personal obligations, medical appointments, interactions with health care providers, disease progression and their spirituality. Context The context of the review includes the experiences of participants from all cultures, socioeconomic backgrounds and countries.