Final answer:
The pacemaker ID code VVI is a mode of cardiac pacemaker operation where 'V' stands for ventricular pacing and sensing, and 'I' indicates inhibited response. It is designed for patients with bradycardia, stimulating the ventricles to contract unless the device detects normal heartbeats.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pacemaker ID code VVI refers to a specific type of pacing mode used by cardiac pacemakers, which are medical devices that regulate the heart's rhythm. This notation is part of a standardized code, known as the NASPE/BPEG Generic Pacemaker Code (NBG Code), used by healthcare professionals to describe the functions of a pacemaker.
The VVI code breaks down as follows:
- V - Stands for Ventricular pacing. The pacemaker sends electrical impulses to the ventricles to stimulate contraction.
- V - Indicates Ventricular sensing. The pacemaker monitors the heart's own electrical activity specifically in the ventricles.
- I - Means Inhibited response. The pacemaker will not deliver a pacing impulse if it senses intrinsic cardiac activity (normal heartbeats) within the ventricles.
This mode is commonly used in patients who have slow heart rates (bradycardia) and do not need atrial pacing. It ensures that the heart maintains a minimum rate but will avoid interfering with any normal heartbeats that it detects.