Ventricular Heart Pump Insertion or Removal

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

• Care notes
• Ambulatory
• Discharge
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A ventricular heart pump (VHP) is a device used for temporary support of your heart's pumping function. Healthcare providers will begin weaning you off of the pump after several hours or days. This will depend on your condition. Providers will slowly start lowering the settings of the pump to see how well your heart is working on its own. You may need a different device if your heart needs long-term support.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US), or have someone call if:

• You have any of the following signs of a heart attack:
  • Squeezing, pressure, or pain in your chest
  • You may also have any of the following:
    • Discomfort or pain in your back, neck, jaw, stomach, or arm
    • Shortness of breath
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Lightheadedness or a sudden cold sweat
• You have any of the following signs of a stroke:
  • Numbness or drooping on one side of your face
  • Weakness in an arm or leg
  • Confusion or difficulty speaking
  • Dizziness, a severe headache, or vision loss

Seek care immediately if:

• Your arm or leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.
• You have new or worsening bruising at your catheter site.
• Your catheter site is red, warm to the touch, or draining pus.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Call your doctor or cardiologist if:

• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Care for the catheter site as directed:

Wear loose-fitting clothing over the area. Do not get the area wet until your healthcare provider says it is okay. When it is okay to bathe, do not scrub the area. Just let water run over it. Dry the area and put on new, clean bandages as directed. Change your bandages when they get wet or dirty. Do not put powders or lotions over your incision. Check the area every day for signs of infection.

Follow up with your doctor or cardiologist as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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