Care of the cardiac device incision
How can I help healing?
- Follow a healthy diet
- Restrict arm movement on side of incision for 4 – 6 weeks if you have received a new lead
- Keep your hands off the incision as much as possible
- Follow the instructions you have been given for exercise and activity
- Persons living with diabetes are advised to ensure adequate control of your blood sugar
Step 1
Wash hands with soap and water before and after touching incision.
Dealing with discomfort:
- Take medications as needed.
- Pain should decrease every day.
- Itching, tightness or numbness along your incisions is normal.
Step 2
Remove dressing 3 days after procedure. Shower.
Stitches
- Most wounds do not require the removal of stitches as they will dissolve on their own.
Steri Strips
- Small strips of non-allergic tape are put across the incision to hold the edges together. They will fall off on their own or gently remove after 7 – 10 days.
Step 3
Examine daily after shower. Pat dry.
STOP
Do not use any lotions or ointments over the incision.
Step 4
Remove steri strips if they have not fallen off after 7 – 10 days. Leave open to air.
Call your clinic (416-480-4471) if:
- Increased drainage, swelling or oozing from incision
- Opening of the incision line
- Increasing pain and redness around the incision
- Increasing warmth along the incision line
- Bleeding that does not stop with pressure
- Increasing body temperature greater than 101℉ or 38℃
Stop smoking.