A suicide attempt on a left ventricular assist device patient during COVID-19 pandemic: Can we only blame the virus? A case report

Abstract

Background Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has emerged as a new threat, not only to Health Care systems but also to citizen's freedom of movement in many developed countries. Case summary We report a suicidal attempt in a destination therapy left ventricular assist device patient, potentially triggered by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown, highlighting the importance of regular and long-term psychological support for this vulnerable population. Discussion The psychological consequences of this pandemic, particularly in chronically ill patients, are yet to be defined.