Pacemaker Implantation: The Questions Patients Actually Ask — Answered by Physicians
Pacemaker Implantation generates some of the most repetitive phone calls in any cardiology practice: arm-lifting limits, incision care, and the "can I use my microwave" classics. PrepQ, a patient-education platform built by physicians and operated by PrepQ LLC, maintains 17 physician-written answers about pacemaker implantation as part of a library of more than 7,500 answers covering 700-plus procedures across 14 specialties. Practices that subscribe to PrepQ give their patients a dedicated phone number to text or call at any hour, and the platform replies instantly with content the practice's own clinicians have reviewed and approved in advance. Questions outside the approved library are referred back to the office, and any message that suggests urgent symptoms is directed to 911 or the practice instead of being answered by software. The result: patients arrive prepared, day-of cancellations drop, and staff stop repeating the same pacemaker implantation instructions dozens of times a week.
Real pacemaker implantation questions from our physician-reviewed library
A sample of the 17 pacemaker implantation answers in PrepQ's library. Before any practice goes live, its own clinicians review and approve every answer — and can customize each one to their protocols.
Can I have an MRI with my pacemaker?
Some pacemakers and leads are designed to be MRI-safe, but only when they are MRI-conditional and the scan is done at a center that can program the device properly for it. Whether an MRI is possible depends on your exact device. Your EP team and device clinic can check your records and tell you what's safe, so it's best to ask them first.
Can I sleep on the side where my pacemaker is?
Many people find the device side a little tender at first, so sleeping on the other side or on your back can be more comfortable in the early weeks. As the area heals, most people are able to sleep on the device side again. There's no single rule for everyone. If discomfort lasts, your care team can offer guidance.
Can I use my cell phone, microwave, or go through airport security with a pacemaker?
Everyday items are generally fine with a pacemaker. It's best to keep a cell phone about six inches away and use the ear or pocket opposite the device. Microwaves are safe to use. At airport security, carrying your device ID card helps, and screening is generally fine, though it's good to let security know you have a device. Your device clinic can answer specific questions.
How is my pacemaker checked, and when does the battery need replacing?
Pacemakers are usually checked in the clinic and often through remote monitoring from home, which lets your team see how the device and battery are doing. Batteries typically last several years, and the device is replaced in a smaller procedure when the battery runs low. The exact timing depends on your device and use. Your device clinic will track this and let you know.
How long does pacemaker implant take and will I stay overnight?
A pacemaker implant often takes about one to two hours, though times vary. Many people stay overnight for monitoring, while some go home the same day. The plan depends on your health and how the procedure goes. Your EP doctor and care team can tell you what to expect in your case.
I feel dizzy or like I might pass out after my pacemaker — should I call?
Feeling dizzy or like you might pass out after a pacemaker is worth attention, so contacting your EP team or device clinic promptly is a good idea. If you actually pass out, or you also have chest pain, emergency care is needed right away, so seeking it immediately is strongly advised. Your care team can check the device and find out what's going on.
I have hiccups or twitching after my pacemaker — is that normal?
Hiccups or twitching near the device after a pacemaker can sometimes happen, often from the device's settings, and it's usually something that can be adjusted. While it's generally not dangerous, it's worth mentioning. It's best to contact your device clinic so they can check the settings and help it stop. Your care team can sort this out for you.
Is shoulder or arm stiffness on the device side normal afterward?
Some shoulder or arm stiffness on the device side is common in the first weeks after a pacemaker, partly from keeping the arm a little more still while things heal. It usually eases with gentle, normal movement over time. If stiffness is severe or keeps getting worse, it's best to check with your care team, who can advise you on safe movement.
Is soreness or a feeling of the device under the skin normal?
Yes, some soreness, mild swelling, or a feeling of the device under the skin is normal in the early weeks and usually eases with time. The area may feel a little tender or firm at first. If the discomfort worsens, or you notice redness, warmth, or drainage, it's best to contact your device clinic. Your care team can reassure you about what's expected.
My pacemaker site is red, swollen, warm, or draining — what should I do?
Redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage at the pacemaker site can be a sign of infection and should not be ignored. It's best to contact your EP team or device clinic right away so they can check it. If you also have a high fever, severe pain, or feel very unwell, emergency care is needed right away, so seeking it immediately is strongly advised.
Your staff answers these 17 questions by phone. PrepQ answers them by text, instantly.
PrepQ gives your cardiology practice a dedicated number patients text or call 24/7. Physician-written answers, approved by your doctors, delivered in English and Spanish — with urgent messages escalated to your office or 911, never improvised. HIPAA-compliant, BAA provided, no EHR integration required.