cardiovascular disorders
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICD)
When an ICD discharges
In patients who report that the ICD has discharged but that no associated symptoms of syncope, dyspnea, chest pain, or persistent palpitations occurred, follow up with the ICD clinic and/or the electrophysiologist within the week is appropriate. The ICD can then be electronically interrogated to determine the reason for discharge. If such associated symptoms were present, or the patient received multiple shocks, emergency department referral is indicated to look for a treatable cause (eg, coronary ischemia, electrolyte abnormality) or device malfunction. 