You must always bring your VAD back-up supplies with you everywhere you go. If your primary VAD equipment fails or breaks, and you don’t have your back-up supplies near, your pump could stop, creating a high risk of stroke or death.
VAD Back-up Supplies
Your back-up supplies include:
Back-up controller
At least two fully charged batteries
Always Have Back-up VAD Supplies
Take your back-up supplies with you everywhere. This includes taking supplies with you to:
The emergency room
The grocery store
The pharmacy
Visit friends/family
UW Health clinic and hospital visits
VAD Back-up Supplies at Home
Keep your back-up supplies on the same level of the home that you are on. Take your supplies with you if you go outside.
Failing to Bring Back-up Supplies to UW Health Visits
If you do not have your back-up supplies with you at your UW Health visits, our policy requires us to issue new controllers and batteries. Your insurance company may not cover the cost if we need to issue new supplies.
When to Call
Call if you have any questions about your VAD supplies and safety plan.
Who to Call
Heart Failure/VAD Clinic
608-263-1690
To reach your VAD Coordinator directly, refer to your VAD patient education binder.