Background In the UK, access to psychological support for people with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) is arbitrary, despite the fact that the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) recognises that the provision of adequate support can positively affect recovery. The author evaluates the available literature.

Conclusion This review identifies that, although a lot of information is available about the effects of ICD technology on patients, there have been few systematic evaluations of care interventions that aid adjustment to living with an ICD. Equally, it has not yet been established whether nurses are equipped to effectively assess and meet the complex care needs of this patient population. The development and evaluation of national standards of care, in association with ICD patients and their families, is recommended.