Which of the following is a contraindication to electrotherapy?

• A. Healthy appetite
• B. Regular sleep
• C. Pacemakers
• D. Adequate hydration

Answer: (C)

Electrical stimulation can interfere with implanted electronic devices, especially pacemakers. The external electrical fields used in electrotherapy can be detected by the pacemaker’s sensing circuitry, potentially causing inappropriate pacing, pacing inhibition, or device malfunction. That risk makes having a pacemaker a contraindication to electrotherapy.

Healthy appetite, regular sleep, and adequate hydration are normal health factors and do not by themselves pose a contraindication to electrotherapy.