Strong Heart and Vascular Center

Procedures

Pacemaker

Discharge Instructions for Pacemaker Procedure

Following your pacemaker procedure, your doctor will have a few instructions for you to follow when you return home, including:

• Keep the incision dry for five days. You may shower on the sixth day after the procedure.
• Remove the bandage over the incision five days after the procedure.
• Do not remove the steri-strips (used instead of stitches). These will fall off in two to four weeks.
• Do not raise your elbow on the side of the pacemaker above shoulder level for 4-6 weeks, unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
• No heavy lifting (no more than 10 pounds) for one week.
• No driving for one week.

Notify your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Extreme weakness
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Any signs of infection of the incision (redness, swelling, fever, etc.)