Abstract
Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) placement requires an extensive support system for success. Patients who are incarcerated face unique challenges in achieving this due to prison rules. We describe a case in which an LVAD patient suffered a massive intracranial hemorrhage, leaving him unable to make his own decisions. Medical teams did not involve his family in admissions for his slow chronic decline, but family were asked to make decisions for him at this acute change causing them significant distress. We advocate that families of incarcerated patients be more routinely involved in provider communications and education related to their chronic decline, not just when they suffer from major critical illness.
Recommended Citation
Cipriaso, MD, J. Marco and Mechler, MD, Kathleen
(2026)
"LVAD Patient with Delayed Family Involvement Due to Incarceration,"
The Medicine Forum: Vol. 27, Article 10.
Available at:
https://jdc.jefferson.edu/tmf/vol27/iss1/10
