Abstract
Little is known about clothing issues among patients with implantable left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). This article describes the experience of a woman who had challenges in adapting to an altered body image imposed by the external components of the LVAD system. The woman discusses her problems about clothes that fit her personal style and shares her strategies and recommendations in overcoming the problem. Her description of how she approached and resolved the problem is situated within the Apparel Body Construct Model. In this context, appropriate selection of apparel is crucial not only to preserving the integrity and function of the LVAD system but also to the recipient's satisfaction with her body image. The information presented is a catalyst for knowledge development and heightening health care providers' awareness of patients' perception of body image, which is vital to adapting to an LVAD as a component of the recipient's body and life.
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