How to Perform CPR on Someone with a Medical Implant (Like a Pacemaker)
When someone collapses and stops breathing, CPR can mean the difference between life and death. But what if the person has a medical implant, like a pacemaker or defibrillator?
Many people hesitate, unsure whether CPR or an AED (defibrillator) could harm the device or the person. The truth is simple: you can and should perform CPR on someone with a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) — but there are a few important things to know.
At Health Solutions of Arizona, we teach the confidence and knowledge needed to act quickly and safely in every scenario, including special cases like this one.
What Is a Pacemaker or ICD?
A pacemaker is a small, battery-powered device implanted under the skin of the chest to help regulate irregular heartbeats.
An ICD (implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) monitors the heart and can deliver a small electric shock to restore a normal rhythm if needed.
Both devices are lifesaving—but they don’t replace CPR during a cardiac arrest.
If You Suspect Cardiac Arrest: Act Fast
1. Check for responsiveness – Tap and shout to see if the person reacts.
2. Call 911 immediately – Have someone nearby get help and bring an AED if available.
3. Start CPR right away – If the person isn’t breathing normally, begin chest compressions.
Performing CPR on Someone with a Pacemaker
Here’s what to do:
1. Hand Placement
Perform CPR the same way you would for any adult:
· Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest, on the lower half of the sternum.
· Place your other hand on top and interlock your fingers.
· Press hard and fast—about 2 inches deep, at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute.
Tip:
You might feel a small, hard lump just below the collarbone on one side of the chest — that’s the pacemaker.
If you notice it, do not place your hands directly over it. Instead, shift your hand slightly toward the center of the chest and continue compressions as usual.
2. Rescue Breaths (If Trained)
After every 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths:
· Tilt the head back slightly and lift the chin.
· Pinch the nose, make a seal over the mouth, and blow just enough air to make the chest rise.
Continue cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until help or an AED arrives.
If you’re not trained in giving breaths, do hands-only CPR—continuous chest compressions until professionals take over.
Using an AED on Someone with a Pacemaker or ICD
AEDs are safe to use on people with implanted devices — but pad placement matters.
Follow these steps:
1. Turn on the AED and follow the voice prompts.
2. Expose the chest and wipe it dry if needed.
3. Look for the medical implant — it will appear as a small bulge under the skin, usually just below one collarbone.
4. Place the AED pads at least one inch away from the implant.
o One pad on the upper right chest (below the collarbone)
o The other pad on the lower left side of the chest (under the armpit)
5. Let the AED analyze and deliver a shock if advised.
Never place a pad directly over the device. Doing so can interfere with energy delivery and reduce the effectiveness of the shock.
Common Myths About CPR and Pacemakers
Myth
Truth
CPR can damage a pacemaker.
CPR does not damage implanted devices. Chest compressions are safe and necessary.
You can get shocked by touching someone with an ICD.
You can’t be harmed by an ICD shock—it’s completely safe to perform CPR.
AEDs shouldn’t be used on people with implants.
AEDs are designed for everyone, including those with pacemakers or ICDs.
The Bottom Line
If someone with a medical implant goes into cardiac arrest, do not hesitate—begin CPR and use an AED immediately. The presence of a pacemaker or ICD should never stop you from saving a life.
The best way to be ready for any emergency is through proper training.
At Health Solutions of Arizona, our CPR and First Aid Certification Courses teach you how to respond confidently in real-world scenarios — including how to safely help people with medical implants, children, infants, and pregnant individuals.
Be Prepared. Be Confident. Be the Difference.
When every second counts, knowing what to do could save a life.
Get certified today with Health Solutions of Arizona’s CPR and First Aid Training