Pacemakers are medical devices that help patients maintain a regular heart rate. If the pacemaker malfunctions because it is defective, the patient can be hurt.
Pacemakers
A pacemaker is placed under the skin and connects to the heart with wires that send electrical signals that help regulate the patient’s heartbeat. They can be used for several types of heart conditions, including an irregular heart rhythm or a slow heart rate. For these patients, pacemakers are crucial ways to make sure the patient’s blood flow and blood oxygen levels are met.
Defects and injuries
One of the most common pacemaker defects is an issue with the battery. If the battery runs out, it can cause the pacemaker not to work properly or stop working entirely.
It is also important for the pacemaker to be checked for errors with its programming and for problems with the wires that connect to the heart. If these become disconnected, the patient’s heartbeat can become irregular. The patient can be hurt if there is a sensor malfunction as well.
The patient may experience symptoms like fainting, tiredness and dizziness, in addition to shortness of breath, chest pain and heart palpitations. They can also have bruising and soreness around the site of the pacemaker.
They can face a life-threatening situation if they have a drop in their oxygen supply, blood clots that can cause a stroke or other complications, and low blood flow to the heart.
It may be necessary to pursue compensation against the device manufacturer.
