Pacemaker/Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Insertion

What to Expect

What to Do the Night Before

1. (Client to insert hospital-specific information such as phone numbers to call for scheduling time, etc.)
   
   
2. You may be told to stop taking certain medications that affect the heart rate for a day or two prior to the test.
   
   
3. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before your procedure. You may take your regular medications (with a small amount of water) unless advised otherwise by your physician. Consult your physician about taking your medications the day of the procedure. If your procedure is scheduled for later in the day, you may be able to have a clear liquid breakfast. Ask your physician about this if your procedure is scheduled for mid-day or later in the afternoon.
   
   
4. Arrange to have someone drive you home after the procedure, as you will not be allowed to drive immediately following the procedure.
   
   
5. Pack an overnight bag in case your physician decides you should spend the night in the hospital following the procedure. Include your pajamas or gown, a robe, slippers, a change of underwear, and toilet articles such as toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.
   
   
6. Bring a list of all medications you are currently taking.
   
   
7. If your physician already knows that you have valve disease, you will be given an antibiotic to take before the procedure.

Diagnostic Tests Before the Procedure

Several procedures or tests are usually completed at some point prior to insertion of a pacemaker or ICD. These tests may include EKG, blood work (blood count; electrolytes such as potassium, calcium, and sodium; bleeding studies to assess how well your blood clotting system works; tests to assess kidney function), and/or chest x-ray.

Scheduling/Registration Information

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Where the Procedure is Done

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Who Performs the Procedure

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Directions to the Hospital

(Client to insert the following information, if appropriate: directions to the hospital, area map, directions to the admission area, valet parking information, virtual tour link, etc.)

It is important to arrive at your scheduled time. Your procedure may not begin immediately due to varying lengths of procedures scheduled before your procedure. You will be updated as frequently as possible.

Preparing for the Procedure in the Hospital

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• Description of IV, site preparations, and medications that may be administered - An intravenous (IV) line will be started in your hand or arm prior to the procedure for injection of medication and to administer IV fluids, if needed. Your chest will be cleaned with an antibacterial soap to help prevent infection from the procedure. You will receive a sedative medication in your IV before the procedure to help you relax. You may wear your glasses, dentures, or hearing aid if you use any of these.
  
  
• Consent forms - You will be asked to sign a consent form after your physician explains the procedure, expected results, and possible complications and risks. Please read through the form carefully. If you have questions about anything in the consent form, please ask your physician to explain the information to you.
  
  
• Description of research studies - You may be asked before or after your procedure if you would like to participate in a research study. We believe research is important to our continued effort to improve care for the patients of tomorrow. However, you are not obligated to participate in any study, nor will your medical care be affected by your decision. Nonetheless, we would like you to make an informed decision. Should you have any questions about the research study you may decide to participate in, please feel free to ask your physician or the research associate during your visit.
  

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