Table 2 Findings and Implications

Patients and their families were minimally aware of the risk of CVD, arrhythmia, and SCD in dialysis and had limited knowledge about the variable presentation of arrhythmic episodes.

Patient education in nephrology practice and dialysis facilities needs to emphasize the risk of arrhythmia/SCD and its common presenting symptoms.

Both patients and families see nephrologists as the primary educators and coordinators of ESKD care. However, there is residual confusion regarding the overlapping roles of Nephrology and Cardiology in managing CVD in the setting of ESKD.

Nephrologists need to clarify their role in the management of arrhythmias occurring in the setting of dialysis treatments.

Arrhythmic episodes are often asymptomatic and patients tend to underreport symptoms.

Efforts to improve long-term survival on dialysis cannot be achieved solely by increasing arrhythmia/SCD awareness among patients without a concurrent strategy for arrhythmia detection

Implantable cardiac monitors concerns primarily limited to adverse effects, the notification process, and cosmetic consequences.

Patients and their families were intrigued by ICMs and would be willing to undergo implantation if the physical harms were outweighed by the benefits of early detection.

Patients asked whether ICMs could deliver therapy.

Patients desire active management of arrhythmias when detected.

Patients and families were unaware of the existence and capabilities of ICMs.

Nephrologists and dialysis facility staff may not be aware of current technologies for arrhythmia monitoring. Widespread clinical use of ICMs will require additional efforts to educate patients and providers.