LVAD AND YOUR VALUES
Some people have found that thinking about the following values helps them decide whether to get an LVAD.
Being clear about what you value can also help you when you talk with your healthcare team. This tool helps everyone understand what's most important to you.
Some people decide that the LVAD is too much work, or that they would prefer to make the best of the days they have left instead of taking on the risks and challenges associated with surgery. These people often turn to hospice and palliative care to help them feel as good as possible and enjoy their remaining time as best they can.
The following information can help you understand more about palliative care, advance care planning, and hospice care.
Look at each value and decide how much it matters in your LVAD decision. Then circle or write the number that reflects how important that value is to you. The numbers range from 0 (for a value that isn’t important at all to you) to 5 (for a value that is extremely important to you).
It may be helpful to use a pen and paper to write down your answers from the values below. If you have access to a printer, you can opt to download the printable version using the link above. When you are finished, talk about your answers with your doctor.
It may be helpful to use a pen and paper to write down your answers from the values below. If you have access to a printer, you can opt to download the printable version using the link above. When you are finished, talk about your answers with your doctor.
BENEFITS OF LVAD
How much do these matter for your decision?
Please rate 0 (none) to 5 (a lot)
Extending your life for a few more years
Why does this matter?
Bridging to a transplant
Why does this matter?
Improving heart failure symptoms such as shortness of breath, weakness, and swelling so that you feel better
Why does this matter?
Increasing your mobility for simple activities such as cleaning house, preparing meals, and going to the grocery store
Why does this matter?
Increasing your mobility for more involved activities such as taking longer trips, going on a cruise, and participating in non-contact sports
Why does this matter?
RISKS OF LVAD
How much do these matter for your decision?
Please rate 0 (none) to 5 (a lot)
Spending a long time in the hospital or rehabilitation center after surgery
Why does this matter?
Having to go back into the hospital for problems such as driveline infections or internal bleeding throughout life with an LVAD
Why does this matter?
Having a disabling stroke
Why does this matter?
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DAILY CHALLENGES
How much do these matter for your decision?
Please rate 0 (none) to 5 (a lot)
Dealing with daily lifestyle changes such as cleaning the driveline, making special preparations for showering, and carrying the device and batteries
Why does this matter?
Increasing dependence on others
Why does this matter?
Affecting your caregiver's life because of the time and energy needed for your care
Why does this matter?
Dealing with expenses for LVAD maintenance such as medicines, co-pays, dressings, and gas for traveling to appointments
Why does this matter?