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How to Understand Pacemaker Interrogations

A heart arrhythmia occurs when a heart is beating too quickly, too slowly or out of rhythm. This is a serious condition that can cause fatigue, fainting, shortness of breath, unconsciousness, or even death. Pacemakers are small devices that can be implanted in the chest or abdomen of a patient who experiences heart arrhythmia. These devices use an electrical current to shock the heart back into a normal rhythm when they detect that an arrhythmia is happening. A patient with a pacemaker must undergo pacemaker interrogations every 6 to 12 months to assess how the pacemaker is working and access the data the pacemaker has been recording about his heart activity.

Things You'll Need

  • Pacemaker
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Instructions

  1. Understanding What is Meant by Interrogation

    • 1

      Understand the purpose of the interrogation. The interrogation takes place to let your doctor know how your pacemaker is functioning and what has been going on with your heart.

    • 2

      Realize that this is not an "interrogation," as is seen on television shows. You will not be questioned in an intimidating fashion.

    • 3

      Know that you will only be asked simple questions about such issues as your energy levels and other arrhythmia symptoms since you last saw your doctor.

    Being Prepared for the Interrogation

    • 4

      Do not change your diet or exercise routine in preparation for the procedure, as it does not require any adjustments on your part prior to seeing your doctor.

    • 5

      Know that the nurse or technician performing the interrogation will pass an electronic device, called a "wand" over the location of your pacemaker.

    • 6

      Be reassured that this is a painless and non-invasive procedure.

    • 7

      Be prepared for the interrogation to take 15 to 20 minutes.

    Use the Information Discovered by the Interrogation

    • 8

      Listen as your doctor explains the information gathered from your pacemaker regarding remaining battery life and any arrhythmia episodes that occurred since your pacemaker was implanted or since your last interrogation.

    • 9

      Ask any questions you have about your heart condition, pacemaker or interrogation results.

    • 10

      Follow your doctor's instructions regarding any diet or lifestyle changes she feels you should implement.

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