Title : Pumped and proud: Empowering LVAD competence
Abstract:
Purpose: Patient satisfaction and length of stay correlate with gaps in knowledge and confidence in LVAD patient populations. This project will define team dynamics and promote patient centered care by addressing these gaps, strengthening clinical reliability and enhancing care experiences.
Relevance/Significance: In a quaternary care facility, LVAD implants increased by 42% within one year, ranking among the top five VAD centers nationwide. Preliminary data along with anecdotal statements from teammates revealed a 60% lack of confidence in a patient’s ability to manage an LVAD. The need to define core teaching elements and initiate education in the immediate post-op phase by providing comprehensive, individualized instruction is imperative to successful retention of information.
Strategy/Implementation/Method: Key stakeholders endorsed the delivery of a structured confidence and knowledge assessment. Preliminary findings were analyzed, and insights guided prioritization of targeted educational metrics. Using a Plan-Do-Study-Act model, a clear role-based education framework was developed by aligning role responsibility and targeted metrics specific to the patient’s individualized plan of care into standard workflows of frontline teammates. The delivery of an LVAD confidence and knowledge post assessment validates the strengthening of patient preparedness and experience through the application of these adaptable teaching strategies.
Evaluation/Outcome/Result: We identified a 60% lack of confidence in patients’ ability to manage an LVAD. Knowledge deficits in LVAD dressing changes and first responder responsibility were the largest gap at 100%, reinforcing the need for structured multidisciplinary education. LVAD mechanics and Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) demonstrated a 50% knowledge gap while emergency management of a LVAD showed 100% confidence. Patient experience scores were below the national benchmark by 7% for nurses explained things and 51% for care provider explained things. Post implementation, improved understanding of lifestyle adaptation parallels with measurable increases in confidence scores, knowledge and patient experience.
Conclusion/Implications for practice: A structured education plan refined nursing workflow through clear role delineation, allowing for patient centered education in a harm-free environment. This collaborative approach established a scalable model, adaptable to diverse populations across the continuum.
