Question

The nurse is caring for a client who is being discharged after insertion of a permanent pacemaker. The client, an avid tennis player, is scheduled to play in a tournament in 1 week. What is the best advice the nurse can give related to this activity?

a) "Cancel your tennis tournament and wait until fall, then try hockey; skating is much easier on pacemakers."
b) "You will need to cancel this activity; you must restrict arm movement above your head for 2 weeks."
c) "You should avoid tennis; basketball or football would be a good substitute."
d) "You may resume all normal activity in 1 week; if you are used to playing tennis, you may proceed with this activity."

Answer 1

The nurse should advise the patient to cancel the tennis tournament and avoid arm movement above the head for 2 weeks to allow proper healing after the pacemaker insertion.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best advice the nurse can give to a client who has had a permanent pacemaker inserted and is an avid tennis player, regarding resuming play in a tennis tournament in 1 week, would be "You will need to cancel this activity; you must restrict arm movement above your head for 2 weeks."

It's crucial for patients with newly implanted pacemakers to allow time for the device to settle and the incision to heal properly. Engaging in vigorous activities, such as playing tennis, which involves extensive arm movement, too soon after surgery could dislodge the pacemaker leads or interfere with the healing process. The typical recommendation is to avoid lifting the arm above the shoulder level on the side where the pacemaker was inserted for at least 2 weeks post-procedure. This precaution helps prevent lead displacement and ensures proper healing.