Increasing Knowledge about Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators at the End of Life, an Effective Approach for Hospice Workers to Improve Patient Care.

Background: Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) decrease mortality in high-risk patients but can also cause distressing shocks near death. Patients who lack knowledge about their ICDs are more likely to have an active device at the end of life. Many hospice workers lack sufficient knowledge to educate patients about ICDs.

ICD Knowledge and Attitudes at End of Life in a Diverse and Vulnerable Patient Population.

Background: Studies thus far lacking diversity show many patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) have poor understanding of ICD functioning, preventing informed decision-making near end of life (EOL).

Objective: To describe knowledge, perceptions, and preferences regarding ICDs among patients nearing EOL in a diverse, safety-net hospital population.

Methods: A cross sectional phone survey of patients with ICDs nearing EOL from a safety-net hospital was performed.