Death - Defibrillator

For patients with an who are terminally ill or nearing natural death, the device can become a burden rather than a benefit.

When a person suffers a cardiac arrest in public, the use of an is critical to survival. defibrillator death

Defibrillators (both external AEDs and internal ICDs) are life-saving tools designed to prevent sudden cardiac death (SCD) by restoring a normal heart rhythm through an electric shock. While they do not directly cause death, "defibrillator death" usually refers to situations where the device is deactivated during end-of-life care, fails due to technical issues, or is unable to stop a terminal cardiac event. End-of-Life & Deactivation For patients with an who are terminally ill

: Historically, some deaths have been linked to lead failure (broken wires) or pulse generator malfunctions. While they do not directly cause death, "defibrillator

: Healthcare providers can deactivate the shock function electronically or by placing a special clinical magnet over the device. Device Failure & Risks

: Some deaths have occurred because a device was accidentally turned off, such as during a surgical procedure, and not reactivated.

Although rare, deaths can occur if an ICD fails to work when needed.