Homegoing Instructions After Pacemaker or ICD Change

IF YOU HAVE AN URGENT MEDICAL PROBLEM, CALL 911 OR HAVE SOMEONE DRIVE YOU TO THE NEAREST EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT.

Wash your hands before you take off the bandage to look at your incision.
Look at your incision every day. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, drainage, fever and chills/shaking.
Leave the incision open to air. Do not use ointments or creams or cover the incision. Wear loose-fitting clothing over the incision.

Do not lift more than 10 pounds for 6 weeks after your procedure.
Unless your doctor gives you special restrictions for driving or activity, you may return to your normal activities one week after your procedure.
You may use microwave ovens, electric blankets and heating pads. Use your cell phone on the side opposite the one that has your pacemaker/ICD.
Carry your pacemaker/ICD identification card with you at all times.

You will have a follow-up appointment 6 to 8 weeks after your procedure. The appointment will be made before you leave the hospital.
Remote monitoring follow-up for ICDs is every 3 months and once a year in the clinic. Otherwise, you will be seen every 3 months in the clinic.
Remote monitoring follow-up for pacemakers is every 3 months and once a year in the clinic. Otherwise, you will be seen every 6 months in the clinic.
Call your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your procedure or if you have any new symptoms. Your doctor or nurse will return your call.

Device Clinic: 216.444.6483 OR 800.223.2273, ext. 46483 (M-F, 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.)

You have more drainage, bleeding or oozing than usual from your incision.
You have an opening in your incision.
The incision area is red, swollen or warm to the touch.
You have a temperature higher than 101 degrees F or 4 degrees C.
You have an ICD and you receive therapy from the device before your 6-8 week follow-up visit.
If you pass out before your ICD fires, call 911 or get a ride to your nearest emergency department.

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