Abstract
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.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 296-302 |
| Number of pages | 7 |
| Journal | British Journal of Cardiac Nursing |
| Volume | 10 |
| Issue number | 6 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Jul 2015 |