What criteria should determine when to discuss defibrillator deactivation?
The timing of such a decision is a complex matter related to difficulties faced by health-care professionals in trying to determine where the patient is on the trajectory of chronic heart failure. Factors that should be considered include patient preference and the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. Additionally, open, informed, and inclusive discussions should be had with the patient, family members, and other healthcare professionals, in order to reach a consensus about the best timing for deactivation of the defibrillator.