Citation

Davis KJ, O'Shea G, Beach M. Prehosp. Disaster Med. 2017; 32(4): 457-461.

Affiliation

University of Pittsburgh,School of Nursing,Pittsburgh,PennsylvaniaUSA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Cambridge University Press)

DOI

10.1017/S1049023X17006379

PMID

28382876

Abstract

Ventricular assist devices (VADs) are an Advanced Life Support for patients with heart failure. These patients are particularly vulnerable in the event of a disaster. A hazard vulnerability analysis (HVA) was conducted to determine areas of susceptibility for these patients. Lack of electrical power, limited access to medications and anticoagulation, dehydration, extreme temperature and weather environments, conditions which predispose to infection, and evacuation transport are all identified circumstances that place these patients at an increased risk for harm and death. Future preparations in disaster planning are needed to address and mitigate these risks. Davis KJ , O'Shea G , Beach M. Assessment of risks posed to VAD patients during disasters. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2017;32(4):1-5.

Language: en

Keywords

DDC Dual Drive Console; HVA hazard vulnerability analysis; LVAD Left Ventricular Assist Device; PVAD Paracorporeal Ventricular Assist Device; VAD ventricular assist device; preparedness; disaster planning; hazard vulnerability analysis; mitigation; ventricular assist device