Which of the following is the primary purpose of an Automated implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (AICD)?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. While continuous blood pressure monitoring is important in certain critical care settings, an AICD does not provide hemodynamic data. Its function is limited to detecting and correcting cardiac rhythm abnormalities. B. An Automated Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (AICD) continuously monitors the heart’s electrical activity. When it detects life-threatening arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF), it can deliver anti-tachycardia pacing or a high-energy shock to restore a normal sinus rhythm. This intervention significantly reduces the risk of sudden cardiac death, especially in patients with structural heart disease or a history of cardiac arrest. C. Insulin delivery is performed via insulin pumps or injections, which are entirely unrelated to cardiac monitoring. Selecting this option reflects a misunderstanding of device functions. D. Chemotherapy administration requires central venous access devices (e.g., port-a-caths or PICC lines) and is not related to cardiac rhythm management. An AICD does not provide intravenous drug delivery or medication therapy.