A nurse is planning teaching for a client who has a newly implanted implantable cardioverter/defibrillator. Which of the following information should the nurse include?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Resume tub baths and swimming after 24 hr: Clients should avoid tub baths, swimming, or submerging the incision for several weeks until the site has fully healed to prevent infection. Early immersion could compromise the surgical site. B. Return in two weeks for a follow-up MRI: MRI scans are generally contraindicated or require special protocols for clients with an implantable cardioverter/defibrillator (ICD). Follow-up visits usually involve device interrogation, not routine MRI scheduling. C. Expect to have a rapid pulse rate for the first few weeks: A rapid pulse is not an expected postoperative finding and may indicate arrhythmias or device malfunction. Clients should report palpitations or symptomatic tachycardia immediately. D. Wear loose-fitting clothing: Loose-fitting clothing helps prevent irritation or pressure over the ICD incision site, promotes comfort, and reduces the risk of disrupting the device pocket during healing. This is an important part of postoperative care instructions.