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FOR PATIENTS & FAMILIES
Ventricular tachycardia & fibrillation — Take-home summary
The essentials to keep, discuss, and use between visits.
Understand your condition
VT and VF start in the lower heart chambers. They can be life-threatening. Treatment may include medication, ablation, and an implantable defibrillator (ICD), depending on the rhythm and heart disease.
Everyday care
- Know your emergency plan and any driving or activity restrictions.
- Take medicines and keep device or rhythm follow-up appointments.
- An ICD treats dangerous episodes; it does not eliminate the underlying heart problem.
When to contact your care team
After one ICD shock with complete recovery, contact your device team promptly and follow your personal plan. Report recurrent racing or new symptoms.
When to call 911
Call 911 for collapse, fainting with racing, chest pressure, severe trouble breathing, or repeated ICD shocks. If someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, follow the dispatcher's CPR/AED instructions.
Questions for your next visit
- What caused my ventricular rhythm?
- What should I do after an ICD shock?
- Would medication or ablation reduce episodes?
Reviewed October 11, 2026. This summary supports your personal care plan.