STICK TO A SCHEDULE
If a patient has an Activa™ RC neurostimulator, they must check the battery daily and charge the battery regularly.
The key to recharging is to set up a schedule that's easy to remember and fits the routine. Some people choose to recharge every day for about 30 minutes, others recharge every 10 to 14 days for about 4 hours. Patients should ask their doctor about how often they should charge the neurostimulator battery based on the therapy settings.
Frequent recharging doesn’t harm the battery or its performance, unlike batteries in some electronic devices.
CHECK THE BATTERY EVERY DAY
Patients should use their programmer to check their battery level every day so that therapy doesn't stop.
The time before the battery gets low depends on the level of stimulation receiving.
No matter the recharging schedule or the stimulation settings, the device will last for 15 years before it needs to be replaced.
RECHARGING SYSTEM
The patient can attach their recharging system comfortably over the shoulder and around the waist, so they can use it hands free. The system has the following parts.
- Recharger: Charges the battery in the neurostimulator — display provides information on the recharging process.
- Shoulder belt: Keeps the antenna positioned over the neurostimulator during the recharging sessions.
- Pouch: Holds the recharger so can move comfortably while recharge.
- Carrying case: Stores the recharger, the recharging components, and the DBS patient programmer.