Indications for Temporary Pacemaker

The heart's own built-in conduction system sends electrical signals throughout the heart to maintain a normal heart rate. When this system is functioning properly, the heart beats normally. However, sometimes a person may develop an arrhythmia, or abnormal heart rhythm. A pacemaker uses electrical impulses to help the heart maintain a normal heart rhythm. A temporary pacemaker is a small, battery-powered device that remains outside the body that is used short-term to keep a person's heart rate stable.

Bradyarrhythmia

• Bradyarrhythmias are arrhythmias that cause an abnormally slow heartbeat. The heart is unable to pump enough blood through the body. The person's blood pressure may plummet. In an emergency, a temporary pacemaker is used to speed up a person's heart rate to prevent fainting, loss of consciousness or even death.

Temporary Arrhythmia

• A temporary pacemaker treats temporary problems, such as a slow heartbeat caused by a heart attack, heart surgery or a medicine overdose. The person is expected to recover and not need a permanent pacemaker.

On-going Care

• A patient on a temporary pacemaker will remain hospitalized until the pacemaker is not needed or a permanent pacemaker is implanted. During this time, the patient will be continuously monitored.

Permanent Pacemaker

• A temporary pacemaker is used when a patient is waiting to receive a permanent pacemaker. The person may be awaiting surgery or may be too ill to have surgery at that time.