Pacemaker Home Phone Transmission
This handout will help you to do home phone transmissions with your pacemaker.
Before doing a transmission
At a clinic visit, a nurse will show you how to use the transmitter. The nurse will also let you know when to expect a call.
Getting ready to do a transmission
1. Have these supplies within reach of your phone:
- Transmitter box
- Glass of water
2. Turn off all nearby appliances—TVs, computers, stereos, or microwave ovens. If they are running, they may interfere with the transmission.
3. Attach the wrist bands to your wrists. The white band goes on the right and the black band goes on the left. Make sure the disks on the bands are on a surface of the skin without hair.
4. Place quite a few drops of water under each disk.
5. Plug the wristband cord into the outlet on the transmitter. The cord may be left in place between checks. (Your model may not require this step.) Make sure the cords are straight and not tangled.
When the nurse calls
1. Turn the transmitter on and place the phone in position. Refer to the picture on the transmitter for the proper spot to put the phone. After 40 seconds, pick up the phone and talk to the nurse.
2. Next, put the phone back on the transmitter. Then place the magnet over your pacemaker. After another 40 seconds pick up the phone.
3. For the final recording, place the phone on the transmitter for 40 seconds more. Do this just like you did the first recording. After 40 seconds, pick up the phone and talk to the nurse. The nurse will let you know how your pacemaker is doing.
This completes your phone check. You will receive a notice in the mail to tell you the date and time of your next appointment.
Who to call with questions
If you feel dizzy, light headed or have a return of the symptoms that you had before your pacemaker was inserted, call the Device Clinic at
(608) 263-1530 or your local doctor the same day.
If you live out of the area, call 1-800-323-8942. Ask for the Device Clinic.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 02/26/2013
Copyright © 02/26/2013 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#6371
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