A pacemaker is a small device that is placed under the skin beneath the collarbone. Through wires (leads), the pacemaker monitors how fast the heart is beating. If the heart beats below the rate that it should be beating, the pacemaker can take over the role of stimulating the heartbeats for as long as is needed.   During the procedure, you will receive medications to keep you comfortable and relaxed. Thin tubes (leads) are inserted through a large vein near your collarbone, and passed into the heart. The leads are connected to a pulse generator (pacemaker) which is implanted in a pouch under the skin below the collarbone. The pulse generator is about the size of a tea bag. It monitors the heart rate and takes over the role of stimulating the heartbeats when necessary. ​

Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

No results

Stories@IH

Read our latest stories

4 Minute Read
Stories, Community & Culture
3 Minute Read
Community & Culture

Brooke loves her job as an ultrasound technician not only because of what she gets to do, but because of the team she works with at Royal Inland Hospital.

8 Minute Read
Community & Culture, Health & Wellness

Interview with Wilfred Barnes, a syilx/ Indigenous Elder & syilx knowledge / nsyilxcn language educator and consultant, about the work and experiences with IH

3 Minute Read
Community & Culture, Health & Wellness

While breastfeeding is natural, it’s not always easy and can take time, patience and support. There are many caring people who can help you on your journey.

5 Minute Read
Health & Wellness

This initiative is dedicated to enhancing health and wellness outcomes for Métis people through collaboration and cultural integration.

3 Minute Read
Community & Culture

For Ashley Ogilvie nursing unit assistant, the best part of being on a health-care team is the collaboration with doctors, nurses and other professionals.

STAY CONNECTED

Receive news and alert posts, and Stories@IH blog posts, right to your inbox!

mail