Question 1

How do I prepare for a Pacemaker or ICD implantation?

Accepted Answer

Small device placed under the skin of the chest to regulate heartbeats.

Question 2

What do I need to know before a Pacemaker or ICD implantation?

Accepted Answer

• **Fasting:** Strict fasting for 6 to 8 hours before the procedure is required. Small sips of water are allowed only to take authorised medication. • **Medication:** If you take anticoagulants (such as acenocoumarol/sintrom, warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban, dabigatran, heparin, etc.) or antiplatelets (such as aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor, prasugrel, etc.), your doctor will tell you whether to continue, adjust or stop them, depending on the type of procedure and your situation. It is **ESSENTIAL** that you follow the exact instructions given by your doctor. Review the consultation report in which the test was requested to confirm the specific guidelines for your case. • **Clothing and Accessories:** Wear loose clothing. Shirts that button at the front are recommended, as afterwards you should not raise the arm on the affected side. Remove jewellery, watches, piercings, glasses and any metal objects. • **Specific Requirements:** You must come with a responsible adult. You will usually stay in hospital for at least one night, so pack a bag with toiletries. You will probably be asked to wash with a special antiseptic soap. • **Discomfort or pain after the test:** After the implant, it is normal to feel mild pain, swelling or tenderness around the incision. This is well controlled with painkillers. You will notice the weight of the device under your skin, which you will soon get used to. *Mandatory requirement: If there is any possibility that you are pregnant, you must inform the staff before the test.*

Question 3

What do I have to do before a Pacemaker or ICD implantation?

Accepted Answer

• **Fasting:** Strict fasting for 6 to 8 hours before the procedure is required. Small sips of water are allowed only to take authorised medication. • **Medication:** If you take anticoagulants (such as acenocoumarol/sintrom, warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban, dabigatran, heparin, etc.) or antiplatelets (such as aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor, prasugrel, etc.), your doctor will tell you whether to continue, adjust or stop them, depending on the type of procedure and your situation. It is **ESSENTIAL** that you follow the exact instructions given by your doctor. Review the consultation report in which the test was requested to confirm the specific guidelines for your case. • **Clothing and Accessories:** Wear loose clothing. Shirts that button at the front are recommended, as afterwards you should not raise the arm on the affected side. Remove jewellery, watches, piercings, glasses and any metal objects. • **Specific Requirements:** You must come with a responsible adult. You will usually stay in hospital for at least one night, so pack a bag with toiletries. You will probably be asked to wash with a special antiseptic soap. • **Discomfort or pain after the test:** After the implant, it is normal to feel mild pain, swelling or tenderness around the incision. This is well controlled with painkillers. You will notice the weight of the device under your skin, which you will soon get used to. *Mandatory requirement: If there is any possibility that you are pregnant, you must inform the staff before the test.*

General instructions for Pacemaker or ICD implantation

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