Heart Ware ® Shower Bag; Getting Ready To Shower - HeartWare Ventricular Assist System Patient Manual

HeartWare® Ventricular Assist System Patient Manual
11.3 HeartWare® Shower Bag
NOTE: Please see Section 1 1.3.1 "Getting Ready to Shower", for additional
instructions and warnings related to showering with your HeartWare® System.
The HeartWare® Shower Bag provides the ability to comfortably and securely shower with your
HeartWare® Ventricular Assist System. The shower bag is water resistant, not water proof, and
protects the controller and batteries from direct water spray and moisture. A small amount of water
accumulation in the bag is acceptable and will not affect proper function of the system. The shower
bag permits one (1) controller and two (2) batteries to be placed into a single compartment.
The cover of the bag has a zipper closure that allows the driveline to exit on the right side of the
bag. An adjustable shoulder strap is used to wear the bag during showering. When showering,
always use two batteries as the controller power sources. DO NOT use the HeartWare® Controller AC
Adapter as one of the controller power sources. Always use the HeartWare® Shower Bag to protect
the controller and batteries when showering.
Recommendations:
 Keep the driveline exit site covered and as dry as possible while showering.
 Try not to pull or move the driveline. Pulling or moving the driveline could injure an
already healed exit site. DO NOT kink or bend the driveline.
 Be careful not to catch the driveline in the zipper when closing the shower bag.
 Prior to showering, make sure both batteries are completely charged.
 If you are hearing impaired, your ability to hear alarms will be reduced. If any alarm is
heard during showering, immediately turn off the shower and address the alarm
condition. If you require hearing aids, make sure someone will be close by to hear
alarms.
 The shower stall floor should be made of a non‐slip surface or have a textured rubber
mat.
 The shower stall should have a handrail and shower chair.
11.3.1 Getting Ready to Shower
Please follow these steps to use the shower bag:
1. Unzip and open the shower bag. Inspect the shower bag for rips or tears and be sure the
inside of the bag is dry. If the integrity of the bag is compromised in any way, do not use the
bag and do not proceed to shower. If needed, contact your VAD coordinator to get a
replacement.
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