What precautions should be taken with an implanted pacemaker or ICD?
Your child should wear a medical identification bracelet or necklace to let others know about the device in case of emergency. When he/she is old enough to have a wallet, it is a good idea to also carry an ID card. According to The American Heart Association and pacemaker manufacturers, the following items have not been shown to alter the function of today’s pacemakers or ICDs: • microwave ovens • kitchen appliances such as blenders, toaster ovens, and electric knives • televisions (including the remote control), FM and AM radios, and stereos • TV and radio transmitters • ham radios and CB radios • electric blankets and heating pads • electric shavers, hair dryers, curling irons, and other personal care appliances • gardening machinery, such as electric trimmers • garage door openers • metal detectors • computers • copying and fax machines • properly grounded shop tools (except power generators or arc welding equipment) Currently, cellular phones are unlikely to affect the functioning
