Quality of life of patients with implantable cardioverser-defibrillator: the usage of SF-36 questionnaire.

OBJECTIVE To observe the quality of life of patients with implantable cardioverser-defibrillator (ICD). METHODS Descriptive research with quantitative approach by means of an interview and the analysis of the Questionnaire SF-36 in a cardiovascular outpatient service. Fifty patients users of this device participated in this study during their medical follow-up in the period from January to December. RESULTS Out of the subjects, 19 (38%) were female and 31 (62%) male. The average age was 58.4 years, ranging from 21 to 75 years. Two domains regarding limitations by physical and emotional aspects below score 50 were observed The social aspects domain presented the higher score; 80,5. Most of the users reported that their health is a little better compared with a year ago. CONCLUSION The results showed that individuals' quality of life is impaired, with lower scores for physical and emotional aspects. There was not a correlation between quality of life and age, gender, marital status and educational level. However, they feel comfortable and safe with ICD benefits since it provides their maintenance in being alive protecting them of sudden death.