What happens if you use a defibrillator on someone with a pacemaker?

Yes. Although implantable pacemakers and defibrillators are designed to withstand external defibrillation, the implanted device can sustain damage if the external defibrillation electrode pads are placed too close to or directly over the device.

Can you resuscitate someone with a defibrillator?

Yes, this is safe. Most pacemakers and ICDs (implantable cardioverter defibrillators) are implanted in the upper left side of the chest. If an ICD does then deliver a shock while CPR is being performed, the internal shock will not harm the person doing CPR.

How long can you live with a pacemaker defibrillator?

Living with a Pacemaker or Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator ICD. Pacemakers and ICDs generally last 5 to 7 years or longer, depending on usage and the type of device. In most cases, you can lead a normal life with an ICD.

What if the victim has a pacemaker or implanted device?

If the victim has a pacemaker implanted, it will be just below the skin, usually in the upper left chest. A pacemaker keeps the heart beating at the proper rate and from beating too slow. It helps control abnormal heart rhythms, and it will only activate if it is needed.

What are the chances of survival when using a defibrillator?

AEDs are used in addition to CPR to save the lives of those suffering cardiac arrest. Research has shown that deploying a defibrillator within 3–5 minutes of collapse can produce survival rates as high as 50–70%.

Can you be shocked with a pacemaker?

As long as the defibrillator pads are placed at least one inch away, the pacemaker should be safe from damage from the electrical shock. However, if at all possible, place the electrodes as far away from the pacemaker as possible.

Can your heart stop if you have a pacemaker?

A pacemaker does not actually beat for the heart, but delivers en- ergy to stimulate the heart muscle to beat. Once someone stops breathing, his body can no longer get oxygen and the heart muscle will die and stop beating, even with a pacemaker.

Can you use a defibrillator on someone with a pacemaker?

Would it be safe to have CPR or for a defibrillator to be used on either of us if one of us were to have a cardiac arrest? Yes, this is safe. Most pacemakers and ICDs (implantable cardioverter defibrillators) are implanted in the upper left side of the chest.

Are there any implantable pacemakers that will beep?

Currently Implantable Cardiac Defibrillators (ICDs) are the only device that will beep. There are no pacemakers currently on the market that will beep for any reason. [Pacemaker and defibrillator combinations will also beep as long as it has a defibrillator component in the device.]

Can a CPR candidate have an implanted pacemaker?

If it is known that a CPR candidate has an implanted pacemaker or defibrillator, the responder may have questions or concerns pertaining to cardiac life support. The following Q&A may help to address some of these questions or concerns. CPR Can CPR chest compressions be performed on patients implanted with pacemakers and/or defibrillators? Yes.

What is a pacemaker or defibrillator ( ICD ) identification card?

What is a Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD) identification card? A Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD) identification card is an ID card that states all relevant information regarding your Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD).

Can a medical alert system interfere with a pacemaker?

In fact, almost all of the medical alert devices available in the United States have been tested to verify that they won’t interfere with implanted medical devices, however, it’s always a good idea to speak with your doctor before investing in a medical alert system.