Ventricular assist devices and nursing care

Abstract

Objective: describing the functioning, benefits and complications associated with the use of ventricular assist devices and identifying the interventions performed by nurses in the care of patients using this device, according to presented evidence. Method: an integrative review of articles collected in health databases conducted in February 2015. The descriptors used were heart diseases, heart-assist devices and nursing. We identified 34 articles, which were then submitted to thematic analysis. Results: ventricular assist devices function as mechanical pumps promoting adequate cardiac output. Their main benefit is hemodynamic stabilization. The most common complication is infection. Health education, emotional support, outpatient care and curative care are the main care actions performed by nurses. Conclusion: evidence confirms improvement in survival rates of patients with severe heart failure with the use of ventricular assist devices, reiterating the importance of expanding this technology in Brazil as a possibility for treatment.