Self care after implantable device surgery

Activity restrictions

Don't lift more than 10 pounds for the first two weeks after surgery. Your arm motion will be restricted. Don’t raise your arm above your shoulder level four to six weeks after surgery.

Incision care

Use soap and water on your incision every day (use a mild antibacterial soap). If Steri-Strips® were used, they should stay in place until they fall off or until they are removed by your doctor at the two week checkup. Watch for signs of infection (swelling, redness or drainage), and report any to your doctor right away.

Signs of pacemaker malfunction

Some signs include dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, fatigue. Check your heart rate (pulse rate) to be sure it’s where your doctor says it should be.

Bathing

You may shower two to three days after your implant procedure or as directed by your doctor.

Returning to work

Your doctor will advise you, based on your procedure, when you are able to return to work.

When to call your doctor about your implant:

Call your doctor or your pacemaker/implant clinic if:

you feel an ICD shock
you feel dizzy or feel you’re going to pass out
your pulse is racing or going very slowly (lower than the rate of your pacemaker setting)
you feel pocket pain or chest wall discomfort beyond the two week period after your implant procedure
you have a serious fall
you hit your head
you have unusual colored urine or stool (including dark brown urine and noticing red or black in your stool)
you have a fever or sickness that gets worse
you vomit, cough or throw up blood
you have loose or runny stools or diarrhea
you have an infection
you have pain or swelling at the device insertion site
you have headache, dizziness, trouble breathing, chest pain or feel more weak or tired than usual.