Patient Perspectives on Living with Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators: Themes from In-Depth Interviews

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the life experiences of patients who had Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) implants.Methods: This study was conducted in Türkiye between January and April 2021 using a descriptive phenomenological approach with 14 participants who underwent ICD implantation. Data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth individual interviews. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, and the data were analyzed using the Colaizzi method. The Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) checklist was used to report this study. A thematic analysis of the interviews was conducted to identify themes.Results: The analysis revealed three main themes: positive experiences, challenges, and uncertainty. Confidence and improved health stood out as positive experiences, whereas life challenges and limitations were frequent. However, while individuals can easily cope with such difficulties, they also struggle with their fears. The experience of receiving shocks is also associated with other challenges. In addition to uncertainties about ICD, sexual counselling and sharing of common experiences are other topics that need to be known.Conclusion: This study shows that patients with ICD experience many difficulties and positive experiences in their lives. At the same time, they need the support of a health team regarding uncertainty. It would be beneficial for healthcare professionals to provide individuals with ICD with the information they need about their batteries and to create a common platform where sexual counselling, coping with fear, and shared experiences can be shared.