How do you swipe a VNS magnet?

To use the magnet:

1. Feel for the edges of the VNS through the person’s shirt.
2. With your other hand, swipe the magnet across the stimulator in the chest area, counting “one – one thousand – two.” That completes one swipe.
3. If the seizure is still going on after 1 minute, you can swipe the magnet again.

How is a VNS activated?

Activation. The VNS device is usually activated at a medical appointment several weeks after the implantation procedure. Your neurologist will program the settings based on your needs using a handheld computer and a programming wand. Typically the amount of stimulation you receive will be set at a low level at first.

How many times do you swipe a VNS magnet?

Your healthcare provider will give you a magnet to use with the VNS device. Swiping the magnet over the device will give an extra stimulation. We recommend swiping the magnet slowly over the device at the onset of a seizure, then every minute for a total of three times.

Will any magnet work with VNS?

People who have an implanted vagus nerve stimulator (called VNS Therapy) will have a magnet that can be used at the time of the seizure. The VNS Therapy provides stimulation on it’s own- you don’t need to use the magnet.

What are the side effects of vagus nerve stimulation VNS?

Some of the side effects and health problems associated with implanted vagus nerve stimulation can include:

• Voice changes.
• Hoarseness.
• Throat pain.
• Cough.
• Headaches.
• Shortness of breath.
• Difficulty swallowing.
• Tingling or prickling of the skin.

How many times can you swipe a VNS?

We recommend swiping the magnet slowly over the device at the onset of a seizure, then every minute for a total of three times.

What is VNS magnet?

How long does VNS take to work?

VNS can take up to two years to have an effect on a patient’s seizures. If VNS proves effective, it may enable a patient to decreases dosages of AEDs over time. The goal of VNS is to reduce the number, length and severity of seizures. VNS may also reduce the time it takes to recover after a seizure.

How do you use a VNS magnet?

1 The VNS magnet can be part of your seizure first aid plan. 2 To use the magnet to stop a seizure: Swipe the magnet across the generator in the chest area, by counting “one-one thousand-one”. 3 Anyone can use the magnet when the seizure starts or when they first notice the seizure symptoms.

How to use a VNS magnet to stop a seizure?

Using VNS Magnet 1 The VNS magnet can be part of your seizure first aid plan. 2 To use the magnet to stop a seizure: Swipe the magnet across the generator in the chest area, by counting “one-one thousand-one”. 3 Anyone can use the magnet when the seizure starts or when they first notice the seizure symptoms.

What is the difference between the magnet and the VNS therapy?

VNS Therapy automatically delivers therapy at regular intervals throughout the day in an effort to control your seizures. The magnet is an optional benefit that may provide additional seizure control.

What is the patient magnet and how does it work?

What is the Patient Magnet? VNS Therapy works to control seizures by intermittently stimulating the vagus nerve automatically, 24 hours a day, regardless of whether a patient chooses to use the magnet. Use of the magnet is not necessary to receive VNS Therapy. The magnet is an added benefit of VNS Therapy that serves two functions: