After Insertable Cardiac Monitor Removal (ICM)
You just had a procedure to remove an insertable cardiac monitor (ICM). As you recover, follow the instructions below.
Activity
- Follow the instructions you are given about limiting your activity.
If you received anesthesia or any type of sedation, follow these instructions for the first 24 hours after the procedure:
- Do not drive or operate heavy machinery. You will need someone else to drive you home.
- Do not make any important decisions or sign legal documents.
Home care
- Follow your doctor's directions carefully for incision site/wound care.
-
Always wash your hands before touching your incision.
-
Do not use any lotions, creams or ointments on your incision site.
-
Only bathe or shower as directed. When you can bathe or shower, gently wash the incision site with soapy water and pat dry. Do not rub or scrub the incision.
Follow-up
- Ask your doctor if you need to schedule a follow-up appointment.
When to call your doctor
Call your doctor right away if any of these occur:
-
Bleeding or swelling at the insertion site
-
Redness, swelling, fluid leaking, or warmth at the incision site
-
Fever of 100.4°F (38°C)
-
Severe pain at the incision site
-
Dizziness
-
Chest pain
-
Lack of energy
-
Fainting spells
-
Rapid pulse or pounding heartbeat
-
Shortness of breath