How the HWD Works The Hospital Wearable Defibrillator (HWD) is a tool for managing patients at risk for cardiac arrest. It provides patients with extra protection and monitoring as well as peace of mind. Unlike an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), the HWD is worn outside the body rather than implanted in the chest. This device continuously monitors the patient's heart with adhesive electrodes. When a Minute Matters With each minute that passes after the start of cardiac arrest, the chance of survival decreases by 10%.1 The HWD complements the hospital's resuscitation protocol and provides timely defibrillation. 1Larsen MP, et al. Ann Emerg Med. 1993;22: 1652–58.