What Really Matters? Understanding Quality of Life Determinants Impacting Ventricular Assist Device Stakeholders

摘要

Through the examination of digital channels, this study explores the determinants impacting the quality of life (QoL) of ventricular assist devices (VAD) stakeholders. Using nonparticipant online ethnography and qualitative content analysis, data were collected from 56 digital channels (Facebook, blogs, Forum, Instagram, YouTube, and podcasts) designed for VAD stakeholders. Data were classified across existing domains of QoL determinants to identify 12 new QoL determinants which address VAD stakeholders' specific needs. Inter-relationships between each stakeholder group's QoL determinants were also identified and explored through the VAD stakeholder QoL framework. This framework provides a holistic approach to the assessment of QoL by considering that QoL determinants are inter-related between stakeholder groups, whereby factors affecting a QoL determinant of one stakeholder can positively or negatively impact the same or other QoL determinants of other stakeholders. Further qualitative and longitudinal research with a focus on the various stages of the VAD patient journey is required to confirm our findings of QoL determinants and inter-relationship between VAD stakeholders from a holistic point of view and explore opportunities to support the QoL of all VAD stakeholders.