Discharge Instructions for a Ventricular Assist Device (VAD)

You had a procedure to insert a ventricular assist device (VAD). This device replaces the pumping action of your heart. Usually, a VAD is inserted as a bridge to a later heart transplant. For some people who are not candidates for a heart transplant, the VAD is considered permanent. This is referred to as destination therapy.

There are different styles and brands of VADs. Caring for your VAD will depend on the type you get. They have a power source and a small pump. Here is what you need to know about home care.

Activity

• Do not lift, pull, or push anything heavier than 10 pounds during the first 6 weeks after your surgery.
• Do not shower until approved by your LVAD team.
• Do not swim or play any water sports. No boating, hot tubs, or baths.
• Do not drive.

Special precautions

• Do not try to repair any of your VAD equipment on your own.  Always call the LVAD team at (855) NYU-LVAD or (855) 698-5823.
• Your VAD is a very special device. It needs a special team to help you with care. Always know who this team is and how to reach the coordinator. 
• Keep the following near you at all times:
• • Hospital's paging number for the VAD coordinator heart transplant coordinator
  • Backup power pack with charged batteries
  • Extra system controller
• Test your system every day.
• Make sure your family or someone in your home knows how to change the power supply and care for your device.
• Notify the power company that you have a VAD. The power company will place you on a priority list to have your power restored first in case of a power outage. Your VAD coordinator can assist you with this. It should be done prior to your discharge from the hospital.
• Wear your device Med Alert bracelet at all times.
• Take your temperature every day. Call your healthcare provider or your VAD coordinator if it is above 100.4°F (38°C).
• Make sure you understand how to monitor your blood pressure with the VAD. Monitoring your blood pressure will be different. A normal blood pressure cuff will not measure it properly. 
• Do not touch television or computer screens or vacuum due to static activity risk
• Do not have an MRI. An MRI could stop the pump.
• Do not walk through X-ray machines.
• Do not sleep on your stomach.
• Always sleep connected to AC power and inspect connection carefully prior to sleep.
• Wear the anchor at all times.
• Always ensure all equipment is secured prior to getting up.

Other home care

• Take your medicines exactly as directed. Do not skip doses.
• You will have to be on blood thinners to prevent blood clots from forming in the device. Blood clots can cause a stroke or other arterial blockage. 
• Sometimes these blood thinners require regular blood testing. Make it to all your appointments to have your blood tests monitored.
• Change driveline dressing daily.
• Change driveline anchor weekly or more often as needed.
• Eat a healthy diet. Ask your healthcare provider for menus and other diet information. Generally, you should avoid drinking more than 2 liters of water in a day or eating more than 2,000 mg of salt.

© 2000-2021 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. This information has been modified by your health care provider with permission from the publisher.