Functional Status and Discharge Location of Patients Post–Left Ventricular Assist Devices Surgery in the Acute Care Setting

Purpose: Left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) are an alternative treatment for patients with heart failure. The purposes of this study were to describe patients immediately post-LVAD surgery, determine differences between functional outcome measures and discharge location, and the potential for initial Functional Status Score of the Intensive Care Unit (FSS-ICU) to assist in discharge recommendations. Methods: A retrospective study (n = 100) was conducted with the following data obtained: general demographics, FSS-ICU, ICU Mobility Scale (IMS), maximal ambulation distance, and discharge location. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on discharge location (home vs facility). Results: The mean age was 52.8 years, with 64% male. A significant improvement in all functional outcomes was observed from evaluation to discharge. Patients discharged home (76%) exhibited significantly higher FSS-ICU and IMS scores and tolerated out-of-bed activity and ambulation earlier. A score of 14 or higher on the initial FSS-ICU was predictive for discharge to home recommendation. Conclusion: Patients post-LVAD implantation exhibited low levels of functional mobility initially, yet were able to tolerate early activity. Patients discharged home had higher functional scores during the initial evaluation. Using the results of the FSS-ICU may assist in discharge recommendations; further research is needed.