A nurse caring for several patients in the cardiac unit is told that one is scheduled for implantation of an automatic internal cardioverter-defibrillator. Which of the following patients is most likely to have this procedure?
A. A patient admitted for myocardial infarction without cardiac muscle damage.
B. A postoperative coronary bypass patient, recovering on schedule.
C. A patient with a history of ventricular tachycardia and syncopal episodes.
D. A patient with a history of atrial tachycardia and fatigue.
Correct Answer: C. A patient with a history of ventricular tachycardia and syncopal episodes.
An automatic internal cardioverter-defibrillator delivers an electric shock to the heart to terminate episodes of ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. This is necessary for a patient with significant ventricular symptoms, such as tachycardia resulting in syncope.
Option A: A patient with myocardial infarction that resolved with no permanent cardiac damage would not be a candidate.
Option B: A patient recovering well from coronary bypass would not need the device.
Option D: Atrial tachycardia is less serious and is treated conservatively with medication and cardioversion as a last resort.