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Updated: May 19, 2026
06:10
Utilizing Percutaneous Ventricular Assist Devices in Acute Myocardial Infarction Complicated by Cardiogenic Shock
Published on: June 12, 2021
The development and evaluation of a competency-based program for patients with a ventricular assist device
Stephanie Loughran1, Jennifer Kealy, Alyssa Shook
1St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC. sloughran@providencehealth.bc.ca
Summary
A new competency-based education program improved bedside nurses' confidence and satisfaction in teaching ventricular assist device (VAD) patients. This systematic approach enhances VAD patient education consistency and effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Nursing Education
- Medical Device Technology
Background:
- Ventricular assist devices (VADs) are crucial for end-stage heart failure patients awaiting transplantation.
- Traditionally, VAD patient education relied on specialized nurses, potentially limiting bedside nurse involvement.
- A prior successful competency-based program in heart transplant patients inspired this VAD education initiative.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and implement a competency-based education program for bedside nurses caring for VAD patients.
- To enhance consistency and organization in VAD patient teaching prior to discharge.
- To improve bedside nurses' confidence and satisfaction in providing VAD patient education.
Main Methods:
- A quality improvement project involving the creation of a competency-based education program.
- Development and administration of pre- and post-implementation questionnaires to 13 bedside nurses.
- Pilot implementation of the designed VAD patient education program.
Main Results:
- Pre-test results highlighted the need for a systematic approach, adequate resources, consistent methods, and feedback in VAD teaching.
- Post-implementation results indicated high satisfaction with the revised competency-based program.
- The program led to increased organization in teaching methods and improved nurse confidence and satisfaction.
Conclusions:
- The competency-based education program successfully standardized VAD patient teaching.
- The program empowered bedside nurses, enhancing their confidence and satisfaction in educating VAD patients.
- This initiative improved the overall delivery of VAD patient education, potentially benefiting patient outcomes.
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