Living with Your Pacemaker: A Comprehensive Care Guide

Daily Care and Monitoring

Wound Care (First Month)

• Keep surgical site clean and dry
• Monitor for signs of infection (redness, swelling, warmth, drainage)
• Follow physician's instructions for showering/bathing
• Avoid touching or manipulating the device area

Regular Monitoring

• Keep all scheduled follow-up appointments
• Participate in remote monitoring if prescribed
• Record any symptoms or concerns in a diary
• Check pulse regularly as directed by your healthcare provider

Activity Guidelines

Permitted Activities (After Recovery)

• Most daily activities
• Light exercise as approved by your physician
• Sexual activity (discuss timing with your doctor)
• Driving (after physician clearance)

Precautions

• Avoid heavy lifting (>10 lbs) for 4-6 weeks
• Avoid vigorous arm movements on implant side
• Maintain distance from strong electromagnetic fields
• Carry your pacemaker ID card at all times

Environmental Considerations

Electronic Device Safety

• Keep cell phones 6 inches from device
• Avoid placing electronic devices in shirt pockets
• Pass quickly through security gates
• Inform security personnel about your device

Medical Procedures

• Alert all healthcare providers about your pacemaker
• Avoid MRI unless device is MRI-conditional
• Discuss any medical procedures with your cardiologist

Emergency Awareness

Contact Your Doctor If You Experience:

• Dizziness or fainting
• Persistent hiccups or twitching
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Swelling or redness at implant site
• Fever within first month of implantation

Regular Maintenance

Battery Life

• Typical lifespan: 5-15 years
• Regular checks during follow-up visits
• Scheduled replacement when indicated

Follow-up Schedule

• Initial check: 7-10 days post-implant
• 1-month follow-up
• Regular checks every 3-6 months
• Annual comprehensive evaluation