What is the full form of AICD?

DSSSB October 2024

Medical & Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: DSSSB October 2024

Explanation

The acronym AICD stands for Automated Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator.
Each part of the name describes a key feature: 'Automated' for its automatic function, 'Implantable' as it's placed in the body, 'Cardioverter' for its ability to correct fast rhythms, and 'Defibrillator' for its ability to shock life-threatening arrhythmias.
This device is a crucial therapy for patients at high risk of sudden cardiac death due to ventricular tachyarrhythmias.
The terms 'Cardioverter' and 'Defibrillator' describe its two main electrical therapy functions.

Option A: The term 'Intrathoracic' is not the standard term used in the acronym. 'Implantable' is the correct word, indicating the device is placed within the body.
Option B: The 'C' in AICD stands for 'Cardioverter,' which is a specific function of delivering an electrical shock to convert an abnormal rhythm. 'Cardiac' is a general term meaning 'related to the heart' and is not specific enough.
Option D: The 'A' stands for 'Automated' or 'Automatic,' signifying the device's ability to function independently. 'Atrioventricular' refers to the AV node and the conduction between the atria and ventricles, which is not what 'A' represents in this acronym.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Medical Acronyms and Cardiology Devices as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
AICDs are a primary and secondary prevention strategy against sudden cardiac death (SCD) for high-risk patients, such as those who have survived a cardiac arrest or have severe heart failure with a low ejection fraction.
Nurses play a vital role in educating patients and families about living with an AICD, including activity restrictions, what to do if a shock is delivered, and the importance of regular device checks.
What if? If a patient with an AICD receives a shock and feels unwell, faints, or has multiple shocks, they should be instructed to call for emergency medical services immediately, as this could indicate a serious arrhythmia or device malfunction.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core task: defining the acronym 'AICD'.
Break down the acronym letter by letter. Consider the medical context, which is cardiology and arrhythmia management.
Evaluate each option by comparing the words to the known functions of the device. 'A' likely means Automatic/Automated. 'I' means Implantable. 'D' means Defibrillator.
Focus on the 'C'. Does it stand for 'Cardiac' or 'Cardioverter'? 'Cardioverter' is a specific function (correcting rhythm), while 'Cardiac' is general. The more specific term is usually correct in medical acronyms.
Eliminate options with incorrect words. 'Intrathoracic' is less standard than 'Implantable'. 'Atrioventricular' is incorrect for 'A'. 'Cardiac' is less precise than 'Cardioverter'.
Select the option that most accurately and specifically describes the device's name and function.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 503-505

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 1999-2001