Cardiac pacing: principles, interventions and patient support

Cardiac pacing is used to treat a variety of heart rhythm irregularities or arrhythmias, most commonly bradyarrhythmia, which is characterised by an abnormally slow heart rate. Temporary and permanent pacemakers work by sending intermittent electric impulses to the heart muscle, stimulating it to contract and ensuring a steady heart rate. This article explains the various temporary and permanent cardiac pacing interventions, describes how pacemakers work, outlines the complications that can arise from their use and details the needs of patients in terms of information, support, monitoring and follow-up.