Key result
Only ~8% of paramedics report having access to ICD deactivation magnets despite frequent emergencies.
Why the study?
Although ICD-related emergencies are increasingly encountered in prehospital care, data on paramedics' exposure to these situations and their access to appropriate equipment remain limited.
Cross-Sectional (n=340)
Paramedics frequently encounter ICD-related emergencies but lack access to ICD deactivation magnets, indicating a need for improved prehospital equipment availability.
Paramedics' low ICD magnet access signals prehospital equipment gaps; leaves open whether targeted supply improves emergency outcomes.
Background The number of patients with implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs) is steadily increasing, making encounters with ICD‐related emergencies more frequent in prehospital care. Paramedics are often the first healthcare professionals to manage these situations; however, data on their exposure to ICD‐related emergencies and access to appropriate equipment remain limited. This study aimed to describe Polish paramedics’ self‐reported experience with ICD‐related emergencies and the availability of ICD deactivation magnets in prehospital settings. Methods A descriptive cross‐sectional survey was conducted among Polish paramedics between April and November 2024 using an anonymous online questionnaire. The survey assessed demographic and professional characteristics, self‐reported exposure to ICD‐related emergencies, perceived familiarity with selected ICD‐related concepts, and access to ICD deactivation magnets. Data were analyzed descriptively, with exploratory subgroup analyses performed for selected variables. Results A total of 340 paramedics participated in the survey. Most respondents reported having assisted patients experiencing ICD discharges, including during cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Self‐reported familiarity with ICD‐related terminology and ECG features varied across items. Only 7.93% of respondents reported access to an ICD deactivation magnet in their ambulance, most often self‐provided rather than officially supplied. Greater professional experience was associated with more frequently reported exposure to ICD‐related emergencies. Conclusions Our study suggests that ICD‐related emergencies are commonly encountered in prehospital practice, while access to ICD deactivation magnets remains limited. The findings reflect self‐reported experience and perceived familiarity rather than objectively assessed competence and highlight potential system‐level considerations for prehospital emergency care.
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Telec et al. (2026) conducted a cross-sectional in ICD-related emergencies (n=340). A survey of 340 Polish paramedics showed that despite frequent encounters with ICD-related emergencies, only 7.93% reported having access to an ICD deactivation magnet in their ambulance.
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