Discharge Instructions for Subcutaneous Implantable Cardioverter- Defibrillator
You had a procedure to insert a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (SICD). This device is also called an SICD or defibrillator. A defibrillator monitors your heart for life threatening rhythms. If your rhythm becomes too fast, the device sends out electrical signals. These signals help bring the rhythm back to normal. As you recover, follow the instructions below.
Activity
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Do not drive until your doctor says it’s OK.
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Do not operate heavy machinery for 24 hours after the procedure.
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Do not make any important decisions or sign legal documents for 24 hours after the procedure.
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Limit your activity as instructed.
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Ask your doctor when you can expect to return to work. Ask if you will have any restrictions in your work duties for any period of time. Keep in mind that if you have a job that requires a commercial driver's license, an ICD implant is a restriction for this type of license.
Home care
- Every day, take your temperature and check your incision for signs of infection (redness, swelling, drainage, or warmth). Do this for 7 days. If you notice swelling at the site, apply pressure and call your doctor's office right away. Your doctor may want you to come to the office for a check-up.
- Take your medicines exactly as directed. Don’t skip doses or stop medicines without discussing this first with your doctor. Tell your doctor if you are having any new symptoms that might be a side effect.
- Do not rub or twist the defibrillator.
Wound / Incision Care
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Follow your doctor's instructions carefully for wound/incision site care.
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Always wash your hands before touching your incision and changing your bandage.
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Do not use any creams or ointments on your incision site.
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Avoid wearing tight clothing over the incision. If you wear a bra, wear one that does not have an underwire for 30 days.
- Follow your doctor's instructions for using the abdominal binder.
Other Precautions
- You should have been given a temporary ID card with information about your device on it. You will get a permanent card in 4 to 6 weeks. Carry the card with you. You can show this card if your device sets off a metal detector. You should also show it to avoid screening with a hand-held security wand.
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Before you receive any treatment, tell all health care providers (including your dentist) that you have a defibrillator.
- You will need to wait 6 months after this procedure before you have any dental work or cleaning. If you need emergency dental work let your doctor know.
- Keep your cell phone at least 6 inches away from your device, even when it’s turned off.
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Avoid strong magnets. Examples are those used in MRIs or in hand-held security wands. Some devices are now safe to use in an MRI scanner. Ask your doctor if you have this type of device.
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Avoid strong electrical fields. Examples are those made by radio transmitting towers, “ham” radios, and heavy-duty electrical equipment.
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Avoid leaning over the open hood of a running car. A running engine creates an electrical field. Other than your car, most items around the house, such as your microwave, are perfectly safe. Most common yard work equipment, such as your lawn mower, is safe. If you use commercial-grade tools, such as an arc welder, check with your doctor for recommendations.
Follow-Up
When to seek medical attention
Call your doctor right away if you have any of these:
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A "shock” sensation from your SICD. This may feel like being kicked in the chest.
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Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
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Signs of infection at your incision site (redness, swelling, drainage, skin pimples along the incision site, or warmth)
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Increased pain around your SICD
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Bleeding at the incision site
Call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room if you have any of the following:
Ask the Emergency Room staff to page the provider who performed your procedure.