Technology-patient interactions: Internet use for gaining a healthy context for living with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator

Objective

The purpose of this study was to understand the practical knowledge gained from Internet use by implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) recipients through hermeneutic interpretation of narrative stories.

Methods

The study took place through an online virtual focus group and e-mail interviews. Thirteen participants attended the ongoing 4-week virtual focus group, and 8 followed up with individual interviews.

Results

Five related themes and 1 constitutive pattern emerged. Themes included getting past fear with knowledge and support; gaining context through a window to the future; Internet as mountain of information; and Internet as social interaction and becoming informed consumers. The constitutive pattern was gaining a context for living a healthy life with an ICD.

Implications

Providers must be aware of the value added when patients use the Internet for self-care management of their chronic illness. Through information searches and sharing stories, patients gain insight into possibilities and potential outcomes of living with an ICD.