You have recently undergone a device generator change. This information leaflet gives important advice following your procedure.
What happens next?
You will have an appointment in the cardiac physiologist led device clinic in 4-6 weeks time. An appointment will be sent to you in due course. Please contact us if you have not received this appointment within 4 weeks. At this appointment your device and wound will be checked and we will review your device settings. You will also receive an updated pacemaker identification card, which you should carry with you at all times. You will be required to show your ID card at airport security and when attending hospital.
Important advice following your implant
You should avoid any movements that put pressure on your wound site for the first two weeks post procedure. Avoid strenuous exercise and lifting heavy objects as this can slow the healing process and increase infection risk.
Wound Care
The wound site will have internal stitches that dissolve and a special glue to close the skin. It is waterproof so you can take a bath or shower from 24 hours after the procedure, although do not soak the wound and just let water wash over the area. Do not rub the wound with a cloth/sponge but gently pat the area with a soft towel. Do not pick the glue as it can lead to infection. It will crystallise and fall off on its own. Avoid using moisturising creams/lotions until the wound has fully healed. It is very important you keep an eye on your wound. If you notice any signs of infection (for example. redness, heat, discharge from the wound site) please contact the pacing team as soon as possible. You may experience pain and discomfort from the wound site for a few days post procedure, which should improve over time. Over the counter pain relief should help with this. You may also experience localised bruising (especially if you take blood thinners) which may last several weeks post procedure.
Driving
Please strictly follow the advice given to you by your Cardiologist regarding driving. You do not need to inform the DVLA of your generator change.
Currently, the DVLA state that after a generator change, you are not allowed to drive for:
• Group 1 (car/motorcycle) - 1 week
• Group 2 (lorry/bus) - 1 week for PPM/CRT-P patients. Licence continues to be revoked if you have an ICD or CRT-D device.
If you receive a shock from your device, please cease driving and contact the pacemaker team for further guidance.
Guidance is subject to change so please ensure you check the DVLA website for up-to-date advice: www.gov.uk/guidance/ cardiovascular-disorders-assessing-fitness-to-drive.
Medication
Unless you have been told otherwise you should continue all medications. If you have stopped any medication prior to the procedure, you will be told when to restart that medication before you are discharged.
Telephone Numbers
Cardiac Day case 01253 957725 – (open Monday to Friday 07:30- 21:00)
Ward 37 – 01253 957737 (open 24hrs)
Ward 38 – 01253 957738 (open 24hrs)
Ward 39 – 01253 957756 (open 24hrs)
Lancashire Suite – 01253 957861 (open 24 hours)
Pacemaker team – 01253 957739 (Monday-Friday 08:45-16:45, answering machine available).
You can also contact your GP for advice within their opening hours. Do not attend A+E unless it is an emergency.
Useful websites
www.bhf.org.uk
www.arrhythmiaalliance.org.uk
https://www.bfwh.nhs.uk/our-services/lancashire-cardiac-centre/ departments/outpatients/pacemaker-clinic/
