Abstract

Implementing Simulation-Based Learning in the Training of LVAD Competent Nurses in the Emergency Department

Author(s): Kitzel R. Robles

Heart failure is a progressive disease that affects about 6.7 million people in the United States of America, and it is projected to increase by 46%, affecting more than 8 million people by the year 2030. Many of these patients require heart transplantation to improve their quality of life, but due to the limited number of organs available, many die waiting for one. A Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) provides an option to heart failure patients as either a bridge to transplantation, a bridge to recovery, or as destination therapy. LVAD patients are becoming more prevalent with improved survival rates, increasing from 80.5% 1-year survival rates from 2010-2014 to 82.5% from 2015-2019. Emergency Department (ED) nurses must have a basic understanding and the appropriate skills to provide high-quality care and implement life-saving interventions.