National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) DOT Practice Exam

A driver who had heart surgery 6 months ago and is asymptomatic with an ICD can be qualified:

1. Yes, he is stable

2. No, more information is needed

3. No, an ICD is disqualifying

4. No, he hasn't met an adequate waiting period

The correct answer is: No, an ICD is disqualifying

A driver with a history of heart surgery and an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) typically faces specific disqualifying conditions according to DOT regulations. The presence of an ICD indicates that the driver has experienced a cardiac event that necessitated the device for monitoring and potential intervention in the case of arrhythmias. This represents a potential risk for sudden incapacitation, which is a critical concern for safety-sensitive positions such as driving a commercial vehicle. In general, regulations regarding drivers with heart conditions emphasize that those who have had significant cardiovascular procedures or devices implanted must meet certain criteria to be qualified. The presence of an ICD, without clear evidence that the driver has regained sufficient health and stability to operate a commercial vehicle safely, typically results in disqualification. This is true even if the driver is asymptomatic, as the ICD indicates a history of serious heart issues that require careful monitoring. While some drivers can be qualified after meeting specific health criteria and requirements, the definitive aspect of this case is the ongoing presence of the ICD, which, under the current regulations, indicates a disqualifying condition rather than a sufficient recovery or stabilization. Therefore, the focus is on the implications of having an ICD and the associated risks, leading to the conclusion that this driver