Going home after your implant procedure
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Restrict movement of your arm on the side of your device for 4 weeks. We encourage you to move your arm gently but restrict any heavy lifting or reaching above shoulder level.
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Remove your dressing at home a week after your procedure. Underneath the main dressing, some operators will use small paper stitches. It is best to soak these in the shower or with a damp cloth to remove them.
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If you have any worries regarding your wound i.e. if it is hot or red or swollen, you should phone the device clinic (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm). You may be asked to email in a picture of your wound. You will be advised regarding what to do next but may be asked to attend the pacemaker clinic at Derriford Hospital for a face-to-face check.
If all is well, you will be routinely seen in the device clinic in around 6 weeks. You should have received your appointment after your procedure, if not, please phone 01752 431677 to confirm the date and time.
If you feel unwell call 111 or 999 as appropriate.
Driving
Inform the DVLA of your device implant.
- Pacemakers – Driving restriction for 1 week.
4-week restriction if you had symptoms of blacking out before your pacemaker was fitted.
- ICDs – See discharge summary for individualised advice.
Different restrictions apply to group 2 licenses.
ID card
You will be given an ID card with the device details on it, please always keep this on your person.
Airport security may ask to see your ID card when flying, obey the airport’s local guidance as instructed.
Contact details
Cardiac Device Clinic, Cardiology, Level 6, Derriford Hospital, PL6 8DH
Appointments: 01752 431676 (9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday)
Cardiac Physiologists: 01752 431679 (9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday)
Cardiac Physiologists: plh-tr.cardiacdeviceclinic@nhs.net
