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Pacemaker precautions, Part II

LTC Nursing Assistant Trainer, August 19, 2004

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Pacemakers--which provide an electrical current to the heart to keep it beating normally--have become increasingly common since the first ones were implanted 46 years ago. During that time, they have become more resistant to outside electrical disturbance, but there are still precautions pacemaker users must take.

Last week, LTC Nursing Assistant Trainer looked at post-operative precautions for those who have pacemakers. This week, we outline some continuing precautions to take with residents who have pacemakers:

 Keep the pacemaker manufacturer's literature available and follow the care instructions
 Do not put pressure on the pacemaker
 Inform the dentist, physician, therapists, and staff that the resident has a pacemaker

Some electromagnetic fields can affect or damage the pacemaker, so users must avoid certain equipment. The manufacturer provides the best guide of what to avoid, but some general guidelines are listed below:

 Avoid anti-theft devices in the doorways of stores, banks, and other secure areas. It is usually okay to walk through in an upright position, but do not stop in the middle or lean against the posts. People in wheelchairs should find an alternate route.
 Cell phones, especially older units, should be kept at least six inches away from most pacemakers.
 Avoid large stereo speakers because they contain strong magnets.
 Keep scanning wands, such as those used in airports, at least six inches away from the pacemaker.
 Stay away from chainsaws, which contain strong magnets.
 Avoid wearing therapeutic magnets near the pacemaker.

Fortunately, it is no longer necessary to avoid microwave ovens with modern pacemakers.

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