Before the procedure begins, a nurse will help you get ready. You will lie on a bed and the nurse will start an IV in a vein in your arm or hand.
To prevent infection and to keep the pacemaker insertion site sterile:
An antibiotic will be given through the IV at the beginning of the procedure
The left or right side of your chest will be shaved
A special soap will be used to cleanse the area
Sterile drapes are used to cover you from your neck to your feet
A soft strap will be placed across your waist and arms to prevent your hands from coming in contact with the sterile area