What psychological support have survivors of out of hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) experienced following discharge from hospital?
Abstract
Chapter One
1.1 Aims
The purpose of this dissertation is to explore relevant literature regarding the support
individuals receive when they are discharged from hospital when surviving and outof-
hospital cardiac arrest. To determine whether individuals who have survived an
out-of-hospital cardiac arrest feel that when they are discharged from hospital
whether they are adequately supported by medical professionals and are prepared
for life following a cardiac arrest.
1.2 Research Design and Analysis
For this dissertation, a phenomenology approach will be used to obtain the relevant
information. The research will be semi structured interviews with individuals who
have survived an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest to understand their views and
experiences. There will be roughly twelve participants interviewed separately to
maintain patient confidentially and to ensure ethical standards are met.
Participants will be asked to provide written consent and for the interviews to be
audio-recorded to enable it to be transcribed later. Once interviews are transcribed,
they will be checked member checked to allow for any errors to be changed and then
themes will be determined.
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1.3 Relevance to Practice
Cardiac arrests are a serious health illness which is life or death. Experiencing a
cardiac arrest is not as common as people may think however the chances of
surviving an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest by by-stander cardiopulmonary
resuscitation are very low compared to surviving an in-hospital cardiac arrest. It is a
nurse’s role when caring for someone who has survived a cardiac arrest to ensure
they are well enough and feel comfortable with being discharged from hospital.
Therefore, it is vital that there is more research carried out regarding this issue.
1.4 Keywords
Cardiac Arrest, Out of Hospital, Nursing Role, Support, Phenomenology, Ethics