Implantable Defibrillator (ICD)

Your incision is closed with either surgical tape, staples or a surgical glue called.
It is important not to scrub, rub, or pick at the site
After 3 days, you may shower
Use mild soap and gentle water stream, then pat dry with a towel
Do not apply lotions, powders, ointments, or perfumes to the incision
Do not soak your incisional site in water for 4-6 weeks (no baths, swimming, hot tub…)
If surgical tape was used do not remove the strips they will fall off within 7 days
If surgical glue was used, the glue will naturally fall off within 3 weeks
If staples were used, they will be removed in 7-10 days

For 2 weeks after your procedure
Do not raise your arm above your shoulder on the same side as your incision
Other than the above restriction you are encouraged to use your arm to prevent frozen shoulder (shoulder pain)
For 4 weeks after your procedure
Do not lift anything more than 10 pounds such as a gallon of milk
Certain activities may be limited longer, those that involve swinging your arm, and will be
discussed with your EP doctor or nurse practitioner (NP)/ physician assistant (PA)
Do not drive until your EP doctor or nurse practitioner/physician assistant states it is safe to drive
A follow-up appointment with your EP doctor or NP will be made for you in 7-14 days
after discharge prior to leaving the hospital

Please take your medications as explained to you (found on your discharge paperwork)
If you have discomfort or soreness, take pain medication (over-the-counter) as explained at discharge

Follow the heart healthy diet recommended by your doctor
If you smoke, we recommend you quit. It will immediately improve your health
If you would like to let us help you live smoke-free, call the Center for Tobacco Control at (516) 466-1980

Pain

You may have pain after your surgery at the incision site.
Take pain medication as directed by your doctor
Call your doctor if your pain is not getting better within 5 days or if it gets worse
Prescription pain medication should be taken with food, and can cause constipation; an over-the-counter stool softener may be helpful

Nausea

Anesthesia can upset your stomach
Eat bland foods (Jell-O, crackers, toast) and drink ginger ale if you are nauseous
Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or ginger ale
If your have nausea or vomiting the day after your surgery or procedure, call your doctor

Bleeding

You may have a small amount of oozing and bruising from your surgical site, this is normal.
Excessive bleeding at the site can be dangerous and should prompt immediate medical attention

Infection

You will receive an ID card and device company booklet

A representative from the device company will pair the ICD with home monitoring.

You will be given instructions on its use and the ICD will be checked before you go home

If you have fever, chills, or severe pain, swelling, redness, heat or yellow drainage at the incision site
If you have bleeding in large amounts or significant new swelling from your puncture site that cannot be controlled or if area becomes very red or hot to touch and painful
If you experience lightheadedness; dizziness or a fainting spell
If you experience a single shock (patients describe it as being kicked/punched in the chest) and feel ok, please call the clinic
If you experience multiple shocks or a single shock and are not feeling well, have someone take you to the emergency room or call 911

Contact your doctor the Cardiology Office at North Shore University Hospital at: (516) 562-2300