An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is an electronic device designed to monitor cardiac electrical activity and deliver prompt defibrillation. These devices are capable of pacing as well as defibrillating, consisting of a generator and sensing and defibrillator electrodes. Myocardial or thoracic subcutaneous patches may be added if the transvenous catheters alone do not adequately defibrillate the heart. Patients with previously implanted defibrillator patches may present for removal of a patch or patches. What action would be appropriate during this procedure? Select all that apply from the options listed below.

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The team should be prepared for emergency intervention if there is excessive bleeding or lethal dysrhythmia. Many ICD electrodes currently employed consist of transvenous electrodes inserted into the generator, much like a transvenous pacemaker system. Myocardial or thoracic subcutaneous patches may be added if the transvenous catheters alone do not adequately defibrillate the heart. Patients with previously applied defibrillator patches may present for removal of a patch or patches; nurses should be prepared for emergency intervention if there is excessive bleeding or lethal dysrhythmia.

An Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) Is an Electronic Device Designed