What it means
The heart's natural pacemaker is the sinoatrial (SA) node, which starts each heartbeat. An artificial pacemaker is used when the heart beats too slowly or its signals are blocked. A permanent one is placed under the skin of the upper chest with wires to the heart; a temporary one may use wires through a vein or pads on the chest. On an ECG, a sharp spike shows each paced beat.
For the nurse
After a new pacemaker, limit raising the arm on that side above the shoulder as ordered while the wires settle, and watch the site for bleeding or infection. Teach the client to carry the device card, check the pulse, keep cell phones and magnets about 15 cm (6 inches) away from it, and tell staff before an MRI or security screening.
At a glance
| Spanish | marcapasos |
|---|---|
| Also written | pacemakers |
Related terms
bradycardia
A heart rate slower than normal; in an adult, fewer than 60 beats per minute.
electrocardiogram
A test that records the heart's electrical activity as waves on paper or a screen.
conduction
The passing of something, such as an electrical signal or heat, from one place to another through a material.
telemetry
Continuous heart rhythm monitoring in which a small device worn by the client sends the ECG signal to a central screen.