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Access Type

WSU Access

Date of Award

January 2025

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Ph.D.

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Mary Anne McCoy

Abstract

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a significant advancement in the treatment of life-threatening illnesses once conventional treatment options are no longer effective. This advanced technology is indicated for health conditions that result in severe heart and lung failure. Moreover, this temporary supportive treatment offers hope in an otherwise hopeless situation. Although significant research has been geared towards advancing ECMO technology, little is known about the experiences of the primary caregivers during ECMO treatment. The existing literature clearly shows that family support and involvement in health-related issues has a tremendous impact on long-term patient outcomes. It then becomes crucial to understand the perspectives of families as it relates to ECMO care. Through a qualitative interpretive phenomenological approach this study will examine the lived experience of the primary caregiver of an individual with a life-threatening illness requiring ECMO. Utilizing Lazarus and Folkman’s transactional theory of stress and coping as a theoretical foundation, this study will, 1) explore the lived experience of the adult ECMO primary caregiver during the acute phase of ECMO treatment and 2) describe the coping strategies used by primary caregivers. The study involved one-on-one interviews with the primary caregivers of ECMO patients to gather information. Data collection took place between June 30 and September 22, 2024, with nine participants involved. Utilizing Coliazzi's analysis for phenomenological research, several patterns emerged from the interview transcripts, leading to the identification of five major themes: 1) Disbelief and Confusion, 2) The Need for Knowledge—What is ECMO? 3) Balancing Act, 4) Hope and Fear, and 5) Gratitude. Additionally, families of ECMO patients experience heightened levels of emotional distress, psychological trauma, and caregiving challenges, putting them at greater risk for maladaptive coping strategies. The study revealed various coping mechanisms that families use, which can ultimately aid nurses in supporting ECMO families during this challenging time. This knowledge enables healthcare providers to develop interventions that better address the specific needs of ECMO families, helping to mitigate the long-term psychological and emotional impacts of witnessing their loved ones undergo ECMO treatment. Developing such interventions help enhance clinical care and improve patient outcomes.

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