How to Monitor a Pacemaker
Things You'll Need
- Monitor
Instructions
-
-
1
Take your pulse regularly, either on your neck or your wrist. This helps ensure that your pacemaker is keeping up with the heartbeat that your doctor deemed necessary for you.
-
2
Check your pacemaker via telephone every few months. According to MayoClinic.com, you can connect yourself to a phone line using a transmitter attached to wristbands, or using a wand over the pacemaker. This will allow your pulse to be sent to a technician on the other end of the line, who will measure your heart rate and rhythm to ensure it's working properly.
-
3
Call the number your doctor has specified to reach the main testing center at your doctor's office. Hold the phone over the monitor so the technician can read the electrocardiogram.
-
4
Place the specified magnet over your pacemaker so the technician can check your heart rate, pacemaker battery life and how well it is functioning.
-
5
Schedule doctor visits to get a full check-up at least once every six months to a year.
-
1