Can a smartphone program prevent PTSD after a defibrillator shock?
NCT ID NCT06037785
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study tests a 1-month self-management program for people who have recently received a shock from their implantable defibrillator (ICD). The program includes heart rate monitoring and online modules with phone coaching, aiming to reduce anxiety and prevent PTSD. 60 participants are randomly assigned to the program plus usual care or usual care alone, and followed for 6 months.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Self-Paced Self-Management (SPSM) program: heart rate self-monitoring and online modules with phone coaching
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a simple, low-cost way to prevent PTSD and improve quality of life for people who receive an ICD shock.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small early-stage feasibility study with only 60 participants. The intervention is short (1 month) and may not work for everyone or have lasting effects.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for IMPLANTABLE DEFIBRILLATOR USER are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
University of Washington
RECRUITINGSeattle, Washington, 98195, United States
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Can six short writing sessions ease PTSD in underserved patients?
- Can a psychedelic compound help veterans and first responders with PTSD and alcohol use disorder?
- Brain scans may guide psychedelics and magnetic pulses to quell suicidal thoughts
- Can online training equip therapists to tackle PTSD and addiction?
- A prescription app takes on PTSD: can digital therapy replace the couch?
- A new talk therapy aims to tackle both insomnia and PTSD in veterans