To explore the psychological response of patients who receive shock therapy from their ICD, and examine its impact on device acceptance and quality of life

Summary

Background:

Evidence indicates that at least 50% of patients with an Implantable Cardioverter Defebrilatior (ICD) are anxious at the time of implantation. This is excalated when they receive a shock from their device.

Novel web-based intervention as supplements to usual care have failed to improve levels of anxiety.

Further exploration of their psychological response, identifying those factors that relate to common mental health problems and those that are unique to individuals with an ICD in order to support the co-development of appropriate supportive intervention, is urgently needed.

Aim and objectives:

To explore patients psychological response to receiving shock therapy, determine the main psychological disorders and potential impact of these on device acceptance and quality of life.

Methodology:

An exploratory mixed method design, with 2 phases.

Phase 1 will involve a systematic review of the literature to examine the common psychological disorders found within this cohort. Patients (n=12 to 15) with an ICD and have received shock therapy will be invited to interview. Questions will aim to explore the often individualised and complex psychological impact of shock therapy. Data will be analysed and key psychological concerns identified

Phase 2: These will be used to inform the validated tools used within an online survey disseminated to patients living with an ICD within the UK. Validated tools may examine anxiety and depression, device acceptability, PTSD and quality of life. Results will be shared at a deliberate workshop with patients, caregivers and professionals, in order to define the key concepts of a future intervention.  

Expected outcomes:

Complexity of patients’ psychological response to shock therapy in order to inform appropriate psychological intervention.

AccessNI clearance required

Please note, the successful candidate will be required to obtain AccessNI clearance prior to registration due to the nature of the project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• Masters at 65%
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Relevant professional qualification and/or a Degree in a Health or Health related area

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £21,000 (approximately) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available to home candidates, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.