asked 3 weeks ago
If I have a pt who requires pacing for bradycardia but they are not stretcher accessible how should I extricate them? Should I delay pacing until they are on the stretcher or should I disconnect them for extrication? (ex. Have to be stair chaired and there's no room for the monitor or if they are being paced and we need to move them) should I stop the pacing so I don't get shocked?
1 Answers
answered 6 days ago
Excellent question pertaining to the clinical scenario of transcutaneous pacing and safe patient movement. Temporary discontinuation of transcutaneous pacing during essential patient movement should be minimized, but may be necessary in certain situations. If the bradycardia is stable and the patient is compensating (blood pressure, mentation), a brief delay for safe extraction is reasonable, as in the case of your example involving the extraction with a stair chair with limited space for the monitor and equipment. Modern transcutaneous pacing devices are designed with safety features to prevent shock to providers. However, it is crucial to ensure proper pad placement and cable management to prevent any accidental application outside of the intended area. For instance, during challenging extractions, it is essential to assign someone to monitor, pad, and cable management to avoid disruptions and ensure clear communication with all members involved in the patient’s care. If any temporary discontinuation is required, it is imperative to document the time and circumstances of its occurrence, including the reason for its necessity. Never compromise provider safety during patient care.
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