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
Although rare, deaths can occur if an ICD fails to work when needed. defibrillator death
: Healthcare providers can deactivate the shock function electronically or by placing a special clinical magnet over the device. Device Failure & Risks Defibrillators (both external AEDs and internal ICDs) are
: Deactivating an ICD allows for a natural and peaceful death. If left on, the device may continue to deliver painful shocks as the heart naturally fails, which can be distressing for both the patient and their family. : Healthcare providers can deactivate the shock function