Importance of device monitoring
Device monitoring is very important to assure normal function of your Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Device.
Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Devices (CIED) include pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD), cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), fluid monitors and implantable loop recorders.
Device monitoring is the most effective way to find actual or potential device problems or changes in your condition before you feel ill. It also provides additional information that helps your doctor to better care for you.
Device experts from around the world have developed a common understanding of how you can get the most out of your device. There are three groups of people that need to be involved including you (the patient), your health care team (including your doctor and the Device Clinic) and the device manufacturer, each with important roles described below.
Please review this document carefully before signing.
Patient responsibilities
As a patient with an implanted device, it is your responsibility to know and understand:
- Why your device was implanted.
- How your device works.
- What activity restrictions to follow.
- When and how to follow-up with your health care team.
- How to complete your identification card and how to keep the information updated.
- How to notify the Device Clinic and your device manufacturer with updated contact information, such as change of address or telephone number.
- Who to contact with questions and/or problems.
- When to notify your doctor and/or the Device Clinic if you experience: Trauma at or near device, therapeutic radiation, or external shock from electrical source.
Healthcare team/device clinic responsibilities
As your healthcare team, it is our responsibility to:
- Review information about your device with you, including why it was implanted. Also, teach you how to care for yourself and your device at home.
Establish, maintain and review all follow-up information. The Device Clinic staff will:
- Maintain accurate implant and follow-up information.
- Establish a personalized follow-up schedule for you (by telephone and in person).
- Contact you within one week of your scheduled follow-up appointment to remind you about the appointment.
- Request annual or semi-annual follow-up appointments.
- Evaluate and document follow-up results in your electronic medical record (EMR).
- Tell a doctor about an abnormal evaluations within one working day.
- Post notification for a doctor to review normal evaluations within one working day.
- Respond promptly to patient calls and provide recommendations as needed.
- Notify you of safety alerts via a certified letter.
- Make the results of device evaluations available to you. (Device evaluation results are available to you between 7:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. by calling 800.223.2273 ext. 46483 or 216.444.6483).
Device manufacturer’s responsibilities
Your device manufacturer’s responsibilities include:
- Maintain accurate implant information and provide identification cards.
- Answer questions about Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Devices (CIED) interaction with other electronic devices.
- Provide device warranty information.
- Provide technical support for the doctor and Device Clinic and hospital personnel.
- Notify the physician and patient of safety alerts.
CIED monitoring is necessary to assure normal device function and obtain information about your heart rhythm that will help your doctor develop an appropriate treatment plan. Consistent and effective CIED management requires a commitment from you, your healthcare team, and the device manufacturer.
Please return this completed form to your healthcare provider.
