Living Well with Your Pacemaker: Essential Resources and Care Guide

Emergency Contacts

• Cardiac Device Clinic: [Your clinic's number]
• Primary Cardiologist: [Your doctor's number]
• Device Manufacturer Hotline: [24/7 support number]
• Emergency Services: 911

Online Resources

Official Device Manufacturer Websites

• Medtronic: www.medtronic.com/patients
• Boston Scientific: www.bostonscientific.com/patients
• Abbott/St. Jude Medical: www.cardiovascular.abbott/patients
• Biotronik: www.biotronik.com/patients

Patient Support Organizations

• Heart Rhythm Society: www.hrsonline.org
• American Heart Association: www.heart.org
• Mended Hearts: www.mendedhearts.org

Essential Care Guidelines

Daily Activities

• Keep your device ID card with you at all times
• Maintain your follow-up appointment schedule
• Record any symptoms in your symptom diary
• Monitor your incision site during healing

Activity Restrictions

• Avoid strong electromagnetic fields
• Maintain 6-inch distance from cell phones
• No MRI without cardiac team approval
• Avoid direct pressure on device site

Warning Signs

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent hiccups or twitching
• Dizziness or fainting
• Unusual heart racing or fluttering
• Swelling or redness at device site

Support Groups and Education

Local Resources

• Hospital-based support groups
• Cardiac rehabilitation programs
• Device manufacturer patient events
• Community health education programs

Mobile Apps

• Heart rate monitoring apps
• Medication reminder applications
• Device-specific patient portals
• Emergency alert systems

Travel Information

Airport Security

• Present device ID card
• Request hand screening if needed
• Avoid prolonged exposure to security devices

Travel Planning

• Research medical facilities at destination
• Carry medication list and device information
• Consider medical travel insurance
• Locate device clinics at destination