Post-Procedure Monitoring for Pacemaker Placement

A nurse is preparing a patient for a therapeutic procedure involving the placement of a permanent pacemaker due to symptomatic bradycardia.

Before the procedure, the nurse needs to educate the patient on what to expect during and after the procedure, as well as potential risks involved. One crucial aspect of the patient's understanding is regarding the use of anticoagulants.

Fill in the blank regarding the protocol: After the procedure, it is essential that the nurse monitors the patient's heart rate and rhythm continuously for at least ______ hours to observe for complications.