Removal of epicardial pacing wires: an expanded role for nurses

Temporary epicardial pacing wire removal (EPWR) is a procedure performed postoperatively on open heart surgery patients once the cardiac rhythm is stable. Historically, EPWR is performed by the cardiovascular surgeon, however policies of certain institutions permit nurses to carry out this procedure. In the last twelve months at Sioux Valley Hospital (SVH), a team of five telemetry nurses have been removing epicardial pacing wires (EPW) safely and effectively. The purpose of this article is to inform nurses how to safely remove EPWs postoperatively. In addition, a Standard of Care (SOC) describes the nurse's role in EPWR.