Monitoring

A month ago I had a St Jude PM2212 installed and I am still getting used to it. Can anyone tell be what it measures in order to adjust the heart rate and how I can control it. For example if it monitors acceleration can I carry out a sudden movement to trigger a higher heart rate. Also, what information does the Merlin transmit.

2 Comments

Extensive Discussion On Merlin Monitors

by Artist - 2016-04-29 01:04:35

If you use the search feature at the top of this web page, you will find very extensive discussions regarding the Merlin Monitor. Read the comments to the entries. Regarding controlling your pacemaker, the settings the technician programmed into your PM will determine how it interracts with your heart. There is a setting called rate response that will increase your heart rate when it senses increased activity, and if that feature is enabled it will be shown as DDDR on the PM card that St. Jude automatically sends new PM recipients. That feature has different settings. Mine is set on high. There are no settings that you can control. The PM is a small computer that is programmed to respond to your heart. Often those computer settings need to be tweeked by the technician to find what works best for you. Another function sets the low BPM for your heart. For example, if the low setting is 60 BPM, the PM kicks in if your heart rate falls below that. That is the main function of most PMs in treating patients with abnormally low heart rates (Bradycardia). There are alot more knowledgeable PM club members than me who will probably add more information to this discussion. You have come to the right place for support and information.

2 Thoughts

by TJ319 - 2016-05-05 11:05:24

I have occasionally called St. Jude directly and asked for explanations about the Merlin. They are usually very helpful.

While some doctors can be short with their patients, I like to have a written agenda and set of questions for my visits and run through the list with the Technician and the Doctor.

Pacemakers are very complex and sophisticated. In my 2 1/2 years with mine, I've had to insist on several adjustments in order to find a good set of settings that make me comfortable.

You know you're wired when...

You have rhythm.

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