Permanent Pacemaker Implantation
POST IMPLANT DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS FOR
PACEMAKER, DEFIBRILLATOR AND HEART FAILURE SYSTEMS PATIENTS
ON THE SIDE OF YOUR INCISION, AVOID
– Putting direct pressure on your device
i.e., do not lie face down on, press on, or manipulate (twiddle) your device.
Lifting your arm above shoulder level: sudden arm movements within the first three to four weeks following surgery risks pulling the pacemaker/defibrillator/heart failure system out of position.
– Reaching behind the back
– Lifting more than five (5) pounds
TIME FRAME: 2 – 4 weeks following surgery (ask your physician)
WOUND CARE
– Patients with sutures / steri - strips on incision:
Please keep the incision site dry (TIME FRAME: 3 days following surgery)
Please leave steri-strips in place until they fall off or are taken off in our office
– Patients with Dermabond on incision: (this looks like a clear "skin glue"
Please keep the incision site dry TIME FRAME: 1-2 days following surgery)
DRIVING
Recommendations vary depending on the reason the device was placed, the type of device and any medications the patient is taking. Please discuss with your physician.
CALL OUR OFFICE IF THE FOLLOWING SHOULD OCCUR
– Fever > 100oF
– New swelling in hands or feet
– Chest pain, marked shortness of breath, extreme dizziness or fainting
– New redness, swelling, drainage, increased bruising or worsening of pain at your incision site
– IF YOU RECEIVE A SHOCK FROM YOUR DEFIBRILLATOR or HEART FAILURE SYSTEM
After receiving a shock from your defibrillator, go to the EMERGENCY ROOM if (a) you are not feeling well or (b) you receive two (2) or more shocks in less than twelve (12) hours
PATIENTS ON COUMADIN: PT/INR check is required 4 - 7 days post surgery
Call to make an appointment for a 7-10 day post-implant check. This appointment is for evaluation of your device and incision site by a doctor or nurse.