Cardiac Rhythm Implantable Device Training

You go down on the number. For example, a sensitivity of 1.0 mV is twice as sensitive as 2.0 mV.

As with the first two "D's", it stands for dual. The first two represent dual chambers paced, and dual chambers sensed. The third one represents a dual response to an intrinsic event, both inhibiting ("I") if a pace is not needed, and triggering ("T") an AV delay, so that paces follow the P waves if needed. This function means that the pacemaker assists the ventricles in keeping up with the atria if needed. This is covered in more detail in the Pacemaker Timing presentation.

Most people say that it takes about a year to be competent at device checks, and another year to feel really proficient. This long learning curve has several reasons. The field is truly complex, with some very sophisticated engineering at the heart of the devices. Some of the essential concepts are based in the physics of electricity, there are dozens of different models of devices, and maybe most importantly, because it is high risk.