Effect of physical and psychocognitive function and perceived health status on 12-month adverse cardiac events among implantable cardioverter-defibrillator recipients

Abstract

Background: Post-implant recovery in patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) is often compromised because of reduced physical and psycho-cognitive function and poor health perception, leading to short event-free survival. Objectives: To examine the effects of psychocognitive function, health perception, and ICD-related factors on 12-month cardiac events among ICD patients. Methods: Using a prospective study design, ICD patients underwent baseline assessment and were followed for 12 months to assess cardiac events. Results: Cardiac events occurred in 14 patients (18.9%) (N = 74: age, 58 years; primary ICDs, 45.9%). Time after ICD implant (odds ratio [OR] = 1.002; p = .028) and executive function (OR = 1.021; p = .027) were significant predictors of 12-month cardiac events, while other physical and psychological indices were not. Conclusions: Reduced executive function and longer time after implant predicted the events. Healthcare professionals need to assess executive function and provide treatment and support to improve executive function.