Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

Which precautions should be taken if a patient with a pacemaker is undergoing general surgery?

1. The grounding pad is placed away from the heart and as close to the surgical site as possible

2. A magnet should be placed over the pacemaker

3. Both of the above precautions should be taken

4. No precautions are necessary

The correct answer is: Both of the above precautions should be taken

In the context of a patient with a pacemaker undergoing general surgery, both precautions mentioned are essential for ensuring the safety and proper functioning of the pacemaker throughout the surgical process. First, grounding pads are critical for any procedure involving electrosurgery. Placing the grounding pad away from the heart and as close to the surgical site as possible minimizes the risk of interfering with the function of the pacemaker. This is important because electrosurgical currents can cause malfunction or inappropriate pacing if the grounding pad is located too near the device. Secondly, using a magnet over the pacemaker can be a necessary step in some cases, particularly if the type of device and surgical procedure carries a potential risk of electromagnetic interference. The magnet can temporarily switch the pacemaker to a safe mode that protects it from any external electrical influences during the surgery. Together, these precautions help to ensure that the pacemaker operates reliably, preventing any complications during surgery. Therefore, taking both precautions is the most prudent approach for a patient with a pacemaker undergoing general surgery.