Young adult patients’ experience of living with mechanical circulatory support: A phenomenological hermeneutical study

Abstract

Aim: To describe young adult patients’ experiences of living with a mechanical circulatory support (MSC) as a bridge to heart transplantation and impact of self-efficacy. Design: A qualitative and explorative interview study. Methods: Eight interviews with adult participants were conducted and analysed using the phenomenological hermeneutical method. Results: An overall theme, “Navigating from helplessness to feeling strong in the new reality,” and three themes were identified: “Feeling homeless in a changed reality” describes the experience of suddenly falling ill and the loneliness caused by the disease; “Finding my own inner resources” shows that the interviewees found the strength to fight for their lives and began to regain control of their situation; and “Adapting to my new reality” describes the importance of finding strength from others and being able to see MCS as a friend providing respite from the disease. Self-efficacy beliefs play a significant role in the process that the participants went through.