Alert Tones Are Frequently Inaudible among Patients with Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillators

Abstract

The Patient Alert feature is not useful among a large proportion of ICD patients. Patients with Sprint Fidelis leads should be evaluated for their ability to hear audible ICD tones. For patients who cannot hear the Patient Alert feature, a wireless remote monitoring and/or daily application of a magnet by a caregiver should be considered. Device manufacturers should include nonauditory alert technologies such as wireless remote monitoring and vibratory stimulation in future devices.