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QUESTION: What do I do
if I get a shock from my ICD?
If you receive one shock from
your device, then sit down and relax. If you feel back to normal
after about 5 minutes, then just take it easy the rest of the day.
If you receive three or more shocks
from your device in 24 hours, then call 911 for transportation to
the closet emergency room. They will evaluate your status and call
Dr. Porterfield. You will then probably be transported by ambulance
to the Methodist Central Hospital for further evaluation and probably
a change of medication.
If the patient has a shock from the device and remains unconscious,
then CPR should be initiated and 911 called for assistance and transportation
to the closest hospital.
QUESTION: Can my medicine
be altered?
Antiarrhythmic medications should not be altered without a plan
for testing the device on the new medication. Contact
Arrhythmia Consultants for any questions concerning your medications.
QUESTION: Can I use a
microwave?
This is the most commonly asked question about ICD’s. Since
the mid 1980’s there has been no problem with ICD’s and
microwave ovens. The manufactures of both devices have changed their
construction to prevent problems.
QUESTION: Can
I use a cell phone?
Cell phones do have the ability to interfere with ICD’s but
only if the phone is placed directly over the device. If the phone
is used on the opposite side from the device, then there should
be no problem.
QUESTION: Will airport
(department store) security effect my ICD?
Walking through the metal detector will not effect your ICD. However,
the hand held wand could effect your device if it were held over
your ICD for several seconds. Just sweeping it over the pacer will
not be a problem. Have your ICD identification card handy to prove
you have an ICD.
QUESTION: How
soon can I drive after my ICD?
If you have power steering and an automatic transmission, then you
can drive 3 days after your surgery. Driving any vehicle requiring
more strength and agility will have to be cleared by your physician.
QUESTION: When can I take
a bath?
Bathing is permitted 3 days after surgery unless otherwise specified.
QUESTION: How long do
I wear the sling?
If you had a new pacing lead implanted, then the upper arm should
be restrained for 2 weeks.
QUESTION: How active can
I be after surgery?
Walk as much as you want the day after surgery.
Do not raise your hand (on the side of surgery) above your shoulder
for 2 weeks.
No heavy exertion on the involved side for 1 month after surgery.
QUESTION: When does the
dressing come off?
Three days after surgery.
QUESTION: When can I take
the Stiri-Strips off?
Two weeks after surgery.
QUESTION: When can I have
my surgical staples removed?
Two weeks after surgery.
QUESTION: How often does
my ICD have to be checked?
Usually 3 months after initial implant, then every 6 months.
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