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Pacemaker



A pacemaker is a small device that helps control your heart rate by:
• Speeding up the heart rate when it is too slow
• Slowing down the heart rate when it is too fast
• Helping the heart beat regular if it is irregular

A pacemaker is
placed in the chest
during surgery. Wires
called leads are put
into the heart muscle.
The device with the
battery is placed
under your skin,
below your shoulder.

An adult family
member or friend
needs to come with
you to take you home
after your surgery. It
is not safe for you to
drive or leave alone.
Have an adult stay
with you at home for
the first day after your
surgery.

Arrive on time for your appointment. The surgery will take 1-2 hours.
To Prepare
•
Talk to your doctor if you take blood thinners or have diabetes.
•
Do not eat or drink anything, including water, after midnight before your
surgery.
•
Ask your doctor if you should take your medicines the morning of your
surgery. If so, take with sips of water only.