A Primer on Cardiac Devices: Psychological and Pharmacological Considerations

The placement of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), such as implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICDs) and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices, leads to a significant increase in survival for patients with cardiac arrhythmias. However, despite the survival benefits, patients with CIEDs may suffer from a lower quality of life, psychosocial distress, and posttraumatic stress syndrome associated with ICD shocks. This article describes the psychological concerns and considerations when managing a patient with a CIED. The care of a patient with a CIED requires a multidisciplinary approach that includes collaboration between cardiologists and mental health providers. [ Psychiatr Ann . 2016;46(12):683–690.]