Tips To Live With Your Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator

If you are living with an ICD (which can be scary), especially if you have made the decision quickly due to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), you need to know that you aren’t alone or without support. According to research, ICDs can improve quality of life and extend life. By understanding more about the conditions that led to the implantation of the device, the device itself and what to expect from having it- you may live more confidently with an ICD.

The best way to handle out-of-hospital cardiac emergencies is by getting trained in the life-saving CPR procedure. The procedure comprises chest compressions and rescue breaths. Proper application can revive the life of a cardiac arrest victim. If you are on the lookout to sign up for a CPR course in Nashville, don’t look beyond the AHA certified CPR Nashville in Tennessee for acquiring training. Courses for both healthcare and non-healthcare providers are offered. Become certified at the end of the training classes after successfully passing a skills test and written exam. An AHA CPR certification comes with a validity of 2 years which means you will have to go for a CPR renewal Nashville program to extend the validity of your AHA provider card.

Tips to live with your ICD:

Take Medications- Take medications exactly as instructed as medications are part of your treatment plan that includes your ICD. Medications work with your device and help your ticker pump regularly. It is as important that you keep records of what medications you take and when. It is better that you learn more about arrhythmia medications in general.

Underlying Conditions- Keep in mind that an ICD doesn’t change the underlying condition that led to the implantation of it. The device is implanted to help prevent SCA whether due to heart failure (HF) or a genetic risk for SCA. Although using an ICD doesn’t reverse heart disease or alter a gene, but it does reduce your risk of cardiac arrest. Follow your doctor’s instructions for treating your underlying conditions.

Understand Your Device And All Instructions- Check your device regularly to find out how the wires are working, how the battery is doing, and how your condition and any external devices have affected the device’s performance. ICD batteries last 5 to 7 years. Your healthcare provider may check your device several times a year, and they use a special analyzer to detect the first warning that the batteries are running down, before you can detect any changes yourself. Your device is completely protected against contact with water so feel free to take baths and showers. It’s advisable to stay away from magnets and strong electrical fields, and inform airport or other screeners that you have an ICD.

Adhere To Activity Instructions- Follow the restrictions on activity and any other recommendations from your doctor. It takes around 8 weeks for your ICD to settle firmly in place so avoid sudden, jerky or violent actions during this time. Do not cause pressure over the area of your chest where your ICD was put in. You cannot drive commercially when you have the device. You can probably drive about a week after your implantation surgery, your doctor is the one to give you a green light. You need to be physically active everyday which can even include a short walk or simply moving your arms and legs to help your circulation. Ask your doctor about how and when to increase activity. You’ll most probably be able to perform all of you normal activities within a few days of surgery other than the heavy lifting and high-impact activities. Don’t overdo it though.

Don’t leave home without your ICD wallet ID card. For additional security and convenience, consider also getting an I.D. bracelet or necklace.

At CPR Nashville, either register for a course online or call on 615-397-9316 for the same.