New technology creates stressful and demanding situations: Critical Care Nurses' experiences with Impella® treatment

Abstract

Background: The use of Impella® support has resulted in better survival in critically ill heart patients. Impella® is an advanced heart pump used in, among other conditions, cardiogenic shock, and the use of this treatment is increasing. Critical care nurses have a central role in this support, and it is important to be professionally up-to-date. Studies show that more knowledge about intensive care nurses' experience with Impella® treatment is needed.

Aim: To explore critical care nurses’ experiences with intensive care patients undergoing Impella® support.

Methods: The study has a qualitative research approach. Data was collected through two focus group interviews with eight critical care nurses who had varied experiences with Impella®. Knodel’s practical four step approach was used to analyze the data.

Results: The study identified three main themes. 1: Stressful and demanding situations for critical care nurses when caring for patients with Impella® support. 2: Lack of standard guidelines for Impella® support including practical and theoretical education for critical care nurses. 3: Teamwork and the allocation of responsibilities reduce stress for the staff involved in the Impella® support.

Conclusion: There is a lack of procedures for practical and theoretical education. Critical care nurses need structural training and clear guidelines to ensure high quality care to maintain safety for patients receiving Impella® support. Standard guidelines and checklists may contribute to reduce risk of errors. Impella® support can be physically and psychologically stressful for both the patients and critical care nurses.