Using a webcast support service: Experiences of in-person attendees of an implantable cardioverter defibrillator support group

Eva R. Serber, Nancy J. Finch, Lawrence B. Afrin, W. James Greenland

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective: Most patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) adjust well to living with the device; however, some experience difficulties. Support groups assist in coping with the psychologic effects of living with an ICD. The study's aim was to examine acceptability of the in-person attendees of an ICD support group that was cast on the Internet. Sample: A patient satisfaction survey describing the participants' experience was used as a measure of acceptability in this non-experimental, survey, pilot study. Methods: The survey assessed reactions of the in-person participants with ICDs (N = 46) to the introduction of webcasting and remote participation by other individuals with ICDs. Descriptive statistics were conducted. Results: Participating in a webcasted support group was viewed as highly favorable, and responses indicated high satisfaction. Conclusion: Participants were satisfied with the webcast technology, enabling broader access to patients. Research is needed to assess the acceptability and satisfaction among remote participants and the group's effectiveness on clinical outcomes.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)94-104
Number of pages11
JournalHeart and Lung: Journal of Acute and Critical Care
Volume39
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 4 2010
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
Funding for this project was provided by the US Department of Defense (Grant N000149611298, PI: Afrin), the US Department of Energy (Grant DE-FG02-01ER63121, PI: Afrin), and Medtronic Inc.

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