Self-management support for patients after receiving an ICD shock

Biobehavioral Intervention to Reduce PTSD After ICD Shock

Not applicable Interventional University of Washington · NCT06037785

This study is testing a new support program for people who have just received a shock from their ICD to see if it can help reduce anxiety and improve their quality of life.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Washington Academic / other
Locations1 site (Seattle, Washington)
Trial IDNCT06037785 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of a self-management intervention for patients who have recently experienced a shock from an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). The intervention aims to reduce anxiety and prevent the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by providing support during the critical month following the shock. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the self-management intervention along with usual care or usual care alone. The study will assess outcomes over a six-month follow-up period to determine the effectiveness of the intervention in enhancing quality of life and daily functioning.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults who have received an ICD shock within the past week and are able to engage with online resources.

Not a fit: Patients with current PTSD, severe cognitive dysfunction, or those under 18 years old may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the mental health and quality of life for patients recovering from an ICD shock.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using self-management interventions for similar patient populations, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. ICD implant for primary or secondary prevention of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA),
2. receipt of at least 1 ICD shock, appropriate or inappropriate, one week prior to enrollment;
3. able to read, speak and write English;
4. access to online resources and telephone for study duration.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. current diagnosis of PTSD, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder;
2. Short BLESSED score \>6 indicating cognitive dysfunction \[73\];
3. age \<18 years;
4. AUDIT-C score ≥4 for alcohol use;
5. regular non-medical use of illicit drugs

Where this trial is running

Seattle, Washington

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Implantable Defibrillator UserStress ReactionPtsdStress ManagementSocial Cognitive Theoryimplantable cardioverter defibrillatorptsdstress management
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.