Nurses' knowledge of caring for patients with ICDs

Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are used to treat lethal arrhythmias. Objective: This study examined nurses' overall knowledge level about ICDs and the relationship between cardiac nurses' qualifications and length of nursing experience caring for ICD recipients. Method: A validated questionnaire was administered to examine cardiac nurses' knowledge and confidence before and after ICD insertion at two London hospitals. Results: A total of 58 (63.7%) nurses responded with the majority recording post-basic qualifications (n=46; 79%) and primarily in cardiology (n=33; 57%). Correct responses to individual knowledge-based questions ranged from 10–97%. The results revealed that the more experienced cardiac nurses in higher bands with degree-level qualifications were likely to achieve higher scores in knowledge-based questions (p<0.05), although some inconsistencies in responses were noted. Conclusion: The cardiac nurses in this small sample had moderate confidence in their knowledge about ICD care. However, the survey results highlighted the need for structured education.