Care of the pacemaker/implantable cardioverter defibrillator patient in the ED.

As the population ages and the prevalence of cardiovascular disease increases, patients with pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) more commonly present to the emergency department. These patients can have complex medical issues related to and independent of their pacemaker/ICD that require careful management by the emergency physician. This article will review the major diagnostic and therapeutic considerations in the emergency care of patients with pacemakers and ICDs.