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TAM (Treatments and Medicines) NHS Highland
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Deactivation of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD's) at end of life (Guidelines)

Update your RDS mobile app to v4.7.2 to download toolkits even when website is down.

We are pleased to advise that deep linking capability, enabling users to directly download individual mobile toolkits, has now been released on the RDS mobile app. You will see that each toolkit has a small QR code icon in the header area beside the search icon – see screenshot below. Clicking on this icon will open up a window with a full-size QR code and the alternative of a short URL for sharing with users. Instructions are provided.

You may need to actively update to the latest release - RDS app version 4.7.1 - to see this improvement.

Updating to this latest version of the RDS app is also strongly recommended to get the full benefits of the new resilience arrangements – specifically, that if the RDS website should fail, you will still be able to download new mobile app toolkits. To check your current RDS version, click on the three dots bottom right of the RDS app screen. This takes you to a “More” page where you will see the version number. To install latest updates:

On iPhones – go to the Apple store, click on your profile icon top right, scroll down to see the apps waiting to be updated and update the RDS app.

On Android phones – these can vary, but try going to the Google Play store, click on your profile icon top right, click on “Manage apps and device”, select and update the RDS app.

Please get in touch with ann.wales3@nhs.scot with any questions.

Deactivation of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD's) at end of life (Guidelines)

TAM (Treatments and Medicines) NHS Highland

Please note: Author is aware that the guidance on TAM is due for review and plans to review this in January 2025. The guidance can continue to be used in this interim period. If you have any queries, please contact the guideline author/reviewer.

The Operational Policy on Deactivating mainly offers guidance on End of Life Care with a defibrillator. However, alongside this there is an additional supportive information sheet regarding the acute management of these patients.

Useful web links:
Resuscitation Council
DNACPR Policy

Patient information leaflet - Understanding deactivation of your defibrillator

Further advice and guidance can be obtained via the ICD Support Nurse on 01463 706382 or Cardio Respiratory on 01463 704249.

Deactivation consent form

Deactivation at end of life

Deactivation of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD's) at end of life guidance. How a patient is assessed and managed.

Last reviewed: 31/10/2020

Next review date: 31/10/2023

Author(s): Cardiovascular Improvement Group.

Approved By: TAM subgroup of ADTC

Reviewer name(s): Prof S Leslie, Consultant Cardiologist.

Document Id: TAM126