Pacemaker or Defibrillator Generator Change Home Care

WOUND SITE

• Wound and dressing check will be scheduled after 7 days. If dressing changes are needed, you will be given instruction and appropriate supplies before you leave the hospital.
• Do not apply any ointments, creams or dressings.
• Look at your incision every day. Call the hospital if you notice any redness, swelling or drainage.
• Wear loose clothing over the area of your incision.
• You may take a shower few days after the procedure but keeping the dressing and incision area dry for 4 days. DO NOT rub the area with a towel. Instead, blot it dry.

ACTIVITY

• Avoid excessive movement of the affected arm. Talk to your doctor about your return to work.
• Avoid swimming and hot tubs/whirlpools until your incision is completely healed.

DIET/MEDICATION

• No specific dietary change at home unless specified by the health care provider.

WHEN TO CALL CCAD AND SEEK HELP?

• Increased drainage, bleeding or oozing from the incision site;
• Increased opening of the incision where the device was implanted;
• Redness, swelling or warmth around the device insertion site;
• Increased body temperature (greater than 101°F or 38.4 degrees Celsius)