Implantable Loop Recorder

Wound Care

• Your incision is closed with surgical glue.
• It is important not to scrub, rub, or pick at the site.
• The glue will wear off in 5-7 days.
• Do not get your incision wet for 3 days.
• After 3 days, you may shower:
• Use mild soap and gentle water stream, pat dry with a towel.
• Do not apply lotions, powders, ointments, or perfumes to the incision.
• Do not soak your procedure site in water for 2 weeks (no baths, swimming, etc.).
• Wear loose clothing around incision for 7 days.

Activity

• Resume your normal activity after your procedure.
• The device company representative will give you instructions about the patient monitor (remote monitoring system). This will be used to record and send information to the doctor.
• Your follow-up appointment will be made for you prior to discharge.

Medication

• 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.

Diet

• 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

Side Effects

Pain

• You may have at your procedure at the puncture 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 procedural site, this is normal.
• Excessive bleeding at the site can be dangerous and should prompt immediate medical attention

Infection

If you have any of the following signs of infection, call your doctor

• Redness, swelling, fever over 101 degrees, thick yellow/white drainage

Call 911 Immediately If:

You have fainting, lightheadedness; dizziness, palpitations, chest pain, trouble breathing or the same symptoms that you experience before the implantable loop recorder.

Call Your Doctor

If you have fever, chills, or severe pain, swelling, redness, heat or yellow drainage at the incision site.

If you are unable to reach your doctor, contact the Cardiology Office at North Shore University Hospital at: (516) 562-4100