The author discusses using advanced mapping techniques to localize the origin of the ventricular tachycardia to improve applicability and effectiveness of ablation. Nursing care before, during, and after the procedure and essential monitoring requirements, risks, and complications are also reviewed.

Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) have become the standard treatment for patients at high risk of sudden death due to ventricular arrhythmias. Because implantation of an ICD is not a cure, the risk of recurrence of arrhythmia is not reduced, and frequent sequential ICD shocks can cause patients marked discomfort.1 This discomfort accounts for decreased acceptance of the device and a decreased quality of life among patients.2 Although pharmacological treatment of ventricular tachycardia can help reduce recurrences of sustained arrhythmia, antiarrhythmic drugs have been associated with low efficacy, proarrhythmic actions, and frequent toxic effects or long-term adverse effects.3 These problems associated with pharmacological therapies have prompted a search...

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