MRP Project: Qualitative study of ICDs and body image in young people
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Body image, self-esteem and other anxieties for Children and Young People with Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs): A Qualitative Study.
IRAS ID
154720
Contact name
Louisa Casselden
Contact email
Research summary
The development of the Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) has been shown to have good outcomes for people who are at risk of life-threatening irregular heart rhythms. An ICD is a small pulse generator which is implanted under the collar bone, which gives small electric pulses to shock the heart into a regular rhythm. Research suggests that patients often experience ongoing psychological, social and physical changes after getting an ICD. Very little research has been done looking at the experience of children and adolescents with ICDs.
This study aims to explore the experiences of young people with ICD devices, particularly its effect on their body image and self-esteem. This may help to develop the support that is available to these patients to help them to adjust to having an ICD as successfully as possible.
Semi structured interviews of 30mins -1 hour will be undertaken with children and adolescents who have ICDs. Participants will be young people aged 11-17 who attend Yorkhill Hospital Paediatric Cardiac Team. Interviews will be recorded and typed up word for word, with all references to persons or places removed. Recordings will then be destroyed. The transcribed information will then be stored in accordance with NHS GG&C Data Protection Policy.
This study aims to add to the limited evidence base regarding the experiences of children and adolescents with ICDs. This will help inform the support these patients are offered, in order to help their adjustment to having this device.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 3
REC reference
14/WS/1082
Date of REC Opinion
15 Oct 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion