Efficacy of Nursing Care Guidelines on Clinical Outcomes for Patients Undergoing Permanent Pacemaker

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Lecturer of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Tanta University, Egypt. 2Doctorate student of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Tanta University, Egypt

2 Professor of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Tanta University, Egypt

3 Professor of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Egyp

4 Assistant Professor of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Tanta University, Egypt

Abstract

ackground: Pacemaker Implantation is a crucial procedure which saves patient from life-
threatening arrhythmias. Patients undergoing permanent implantable pacemakers face various
physical and psychological challenges that are increase need to be fully informed about the
specific restrictions and precautions for daily activities following pacemaker implantation to
improve quality all over their life. Aim: This study was conducted to evaluate efficacy of
nursing care guidelines on clinical outcomes for patients undergoing permanent pacemaker.
Design: A quasi experimental research design was utilized. Setting: This study conducted at
Cardiac Care Department of Tanta Educational Hospital. Subjects: A purposive sample of 80
adult patients undergoing permanent pacemaker surgery divided into two equal groups, Tools:
four tools were used. Tool (I): Structured Interview schedule Tool (II): Patients‘ Knowledge
Assessment Sheet Tool (III): Adherence to Pacemaker Care Practice Tool (IV): Clinical
Outcomes Assessment Tool Results: There was a highly significant statistical difference in
the total knowledge levels of all studied patients as (87.5%, 90% and 85%) of study group had
high level of knowledge about permanent pacemaker and its work after ten days, one month
and three months post implementation of nursing care guidelines. Additionally, significant
differences were observed between the study and control groups in adherence with pacemaker
care practices (52%of control group had moderate adherence while 62% of study group had
high adherence and performance of daily activities post-implementation. Furthermore, the
study group showed a significant difference in pain levels according to the Visual Analog
Scale. Conclusion: Knowledge, adherence to pacemaker care practices and independency in
daily activities were improved in the study group after implementation of nursing care
guidelines. Recommendations: Nursing care guidelines are essential for managing patients
with permanent pacemakers. It's crucial to enhance caregivers' awareness about pacemaker
practices, necessary precautions, and handling complications.