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Exploring changes in functional status while waiting for transcatheter aortic valve implantation.
Jacqueline M Forman1, Leanne M Currie2, Sandra B Lauck3
1School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Canada Heart Centre, St Paul's Hospital, Canada jforman@providencehealth.bc.ca.
European Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing
|October 5, 2014
Summary
Functional status declines in older adults with severe aortic stenosis awaiting transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Longer wait times exacerbate gait speed decline, highlighting the need for timely intervention and individualized care strategies.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Geriatrics
- Public Health
Background:
- Aortic stenosis (AS) is a common age-related structural heart disease.
- Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a treatment option for symptomatic AS patients at high surgical risk.
- Functional status can decline during the waiting period for TAVI due to disease progression and treatment delays.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate changes in functional status among patients between their TAVI eligibility assessment and the procedure date.
- To identify factors influencing functional status decline in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- An exploratory prospective cohort study was conducted.
- Evaluated changes in gait speed, frailty scores, and cognitive status.
- Thirty-two patients with a median age of 81 years participated.
Main Results:
- Significant declines in functional status were observed, including increased gait time and frailty scores.
- Patients waiting over six weeks for TAVI experienced a greater decline in gait speed.
- Individuals living alone showed a more pronounced increase in frailty scores compared to those living with others.
Conclusions:
- Older adults with severe AS are susceptible to functional deterioration while awaiting TAVI.
- Findings underscore the importance of timely TAVI and individualized care strategies.
- Results can inform healthcare policy and management approaches for AS patients.
