Implementation of a Screening Program for Patients at Risk for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Psychiatry
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) recipients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) face higher cardiac mortality.
• PTSD is often undetected in ICD patients within electrophysiology (EP) clinics.
• Early PTSD identification is crucial for mitigating adverse patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of PTSD in ICD recipients at an urban EP clinic.
• To assess the feasibility of screening for PTSD in this patient population.
• To highlight the importance of mental health referrals for ICD patients.

Main Methods:

• ICD recipients aged 19+ at a Washington University EP clinic were invited to participate.
• Participants completed a primary care: posttraumatic stress disorder (PC: PTSD) survey.
• Positive screeners were referred for mental health services; PTSD prevalence was compared to prior research.

Main Results:

• 18% (9/50) of ICD recipients screened positive for PTSD.
• All nine participants with positive screens were referred to mental health specialists.
• The observed PTSD prevalence of 18% aligns with previous studies, though not reaching the hypothesized 20%.

Conclusions:

• The study confirms underrecognition of PTSD in ICD patients.
• Routine PC: PTSD screening and mental health referrals in EP clinics are vital.
• Proactive mental health support can reduce severe patient outcomes in ICD recipients.