- Patients typically need 6-8 weeks to recover from heart surgery and should follow their doctor's instructions during that time. They should avoid lifting more than 10 pounds and strenuous activities that stress the healing breastbone.
- Family members play an important role in supporting the patient's recovery at home by taking over tasks the patient cannot do and helping to coordinate their care. The lifestyle changes needed for recovery also often motivate family to improve their own heart health.
- Recovery involves adjustments for both physical and emotional well-being, with good and bad days expected. With family cooperation and patience, patients are able to regain their independence.
The document consists of multiple pages from the book "Aplicaciones web 2.0: blogs" by María Cristina Priegue. Each page contains copyright information attributing the content to Eduvim - Editorial Universitaria Villa María and restrictions that the content may not be reproduced without permission except for fair use as allowed by US copyright law.
Before you buy real estate in Mexico, you should know a few facts around the beaches of Playa del carmen from Grand coral real estate Group. Properties there could range from single family or multi-family homes, to flats or condos in Playa del carmen riviera maya.
The magical beaches overlooking Grand Coral Riviera Maya and the Playa del Carmen beach club gives you the best living experience at an affordable price.
Newest and famous real estate from the Grand Coral Riviera Maya with its rich and high profiled luxurious accommodation near the Playa del Carmen Riviera Maya known for its beaches and golf course.
This document is advertising a resort called Grand Coral Riviera Maya located in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. It encourages enjoying the resort with family and provides the address and phone number for the sales office. Potential customers can also visit the resort's website for more information.
The development of critical thinking necessitates that our system of education should foster an adequate amount of thought-provoking and well-thought of links between real life situations with classroom practices that really work.
Motor bensin bekerja dengan cara membakar campuran udara dan bensin di dalam ruang bakar (silinder) untuk mendorong turun naiknya piston. Ada dua jenis motor bensin yaitu 4 tak dan 2 tak. Motor 4 tak terdiri atas 4 langkah yakni isap, kompresi, usaha dan buang, sedangkan motor 2 tak hanya memiliki 3 langkah yaitu kompresi, usaha dan bilas. Kedua jenis motor beroperasi dengan cara yang sama yaitu membakar campuran
High end beachfront property for sale in Mexico through Gcoral which is the leading property developer offering some of the finest beachside condominiums and apartments at a great price.
The document consists of multiple pages from the book "Aplicaciones web 2.0: blogs" by María Cristina Priegue. Each page contains copyright information attributing the content to Eduvim - Editorial Universitaria Villa María and restrictions that the content may not be reproduced without permission except for fair use as allowed by US copyright law.
Before you buy real estate in Mexico, you should know a few facts around the beaches of Playa del carmen from Grand coral real estate Group. Properties there could range from single family or multi-family homes, to flats or condos in Playa del carmen riviera maya.
The magical beaches overlooking Grand Coral Riviera Maya and the Playa del Carmen beach club gives you the best living experience at an affordable price.
Newest and famous real estate from the Grand Coral Riviera Maya with its rich and high profiled luxurious accommodation near the Playa del Carmen Riviera Maya known for its beaches and golf course.
This document is advertising a resort called Grand Coral Riviera Maya located in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. It encourages enjoying the resort with family and provides the address and phone number for the sales office. Potential customers can also visit the resort's website for more information.
The development of critical thinking necessitates that our system of education should foster an adequate amount of thought-provoking and well-thought of links between real life situations with classroom practices that really work.
Motor bensin bekerja dengan cara membakar campuran udara dan bensin di dalam ruang bakar (silinder) untuk mendorong turun naiknya piston. Ada dua jenis motor bensin yaitu 4 tak dan 2 tak. Motor 4 tak terdiri atas 4 langkah yakni isap, kompresi, usaha dan buang, sedangkan motor 2 tak hanya memiliki 3 langkah yaitu kompresi, usaha dan bilas. Kedua jenis motor beroperasi dengan cara yang sama yaitu membakar campuran
High end beachfront property for sale in Mexico through Gcoral which is the leading property developer offering some of the finest beachside condominiums and apartments at a great price.
The female reproductive system is a very complex system. And as with any system, occasionally, things go wrong. When treatments and therapies can't fix an issue, sometimes surgery is required. Surgery to remove a woman's uterus or womb, a major component of this system, is called hysterectomy
It usually takes about 6 weeks to recover from your c-section but this will depend on your individual situation. If you had any problems during or after your c-section, or if you’re looking after other children at home, you may feel you need more time to recover.
Information For You After a Pelvic Floor Repair OperationMichelle Fynes
This document provides information for women recovering after a pelvic floor repair operation. It details what patients can expect in terms of usual hospital stay length, common after-effects like pain and bleeding, and advice on activities like exercise, diet, and returning to normal activities. The document emphasizes the importance of rest, pelvic floor exercises, mobility, and following an enhanced recovery program to aid in healing and returning to full health as quickly as possible after surgery.
This document provides information about hysterectomies, including what the procedure is, the different types, reasons it may be performed, what to expect before, during, and after surgery, potential side effects and complications, and signs that should prompt contacting a healthcare provider. A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus and can also involve removing the ovaries and/or fallopian tubes. It is commonly performed to treat conditions like abnormal bleeding, fibroids, endometriosis, and various cancers. The procedure usually lasts 1-3 hours and is done under general or regional anesthesia through either an abdominal or vaginal incision. Recovery at home involves gradually increasing activity levels over 4-6 weeks.
CABG surgery is performed to relieve symptoms of coronary artery disease by creating new routes around blocked arteries. The document outlines the care of a patient after CABG surgery both in the hospital and at home. It details instructions for incision care, exercises like deep breathing and walking to improve lung function and heart health, and signs to watch out for and report to the doctor like fever, swelling, or pain. The goal of post-surgery care is for the patient to safely recover and rehabilitate through lifestyle changes and exercise while avoiding risks that could negatively impact healing.
Covid 19 prevention for those living with diabetesBreannaFallon
This document provides information for people with diabetes on preventing, preparing for, and managing COVID-19. It discusses how COVID-19 affects those with diabetes more severely. It recommends calling your doctor if experiencing symptoms, practicing social distancing and hand washing, and getting prepared with supplies like medications and glucose testing materials. If sick, it advises continuing diabetes medications, checking glucose regularly, and watching for dehydration or ketones. It outlines sick day guidelines and when to call the doctor for worsening symptoms.
Surgical F1 Prep Talk - Dafydd Loughranwelshbarbers
This document provides guidance and advice to a surgical trainee beginning their first day on call. It emphasizes being prepared with up-to-date patient information and bloodwork. It discusses appropriately evaluating and managing common acute surgical conditions like appendicitis and pancreatitis. Guidance is provided on consenting for procedures and communicating effectively with referral sources. The overall message is to focus on the basics of patient care and know when to escalate concerns, as the document aims to equip the trainee for typical issues that may arise on their first day on call.
This document provides an overview of intrapartum care and management of common complications during labor and delivery. It discusses monitoring of vital signs and glucose, management of hypertension and diabetes, pain relief options, and care for women with conditions such as epilepsy, cardiac issues, asthma and thrombophilia. It also reviews principles for repair of perineal trauma, management of retained placenta, and postoperative care following delivery.
What to expect before and after lung transplantSandra Tindle
This document outlines what to expect before and after receiving a lung transplant. It discusses the rigorous evaluation process before transplant approval. It describes rehabilitation and testing in the hospital after surgery, including bronchoscopies to monitor the lungs. Recovery takes 1-4 weeks, and patients must stay near the transplant center for 3 months while undergoing frequent testing. Lifelong commitments include taking multiple medications on schedule to prevent rejection and infection.
This document provides information on several classes of cardiovascular medications, including their mechanisms of action, common uses, potential adverse effects, and nursing considerations. It discusses cardiac glycosides like digoxin, nitrate vasodilators like nitroglycerin, antiarrhythmics, diuretics, and beta-blockers. For each class, it outlines how to monitor the patient and assess for desired or adverse effects of the medication. Key nursing responsibilities are also reviewed, such as assessing vital signs, electrolytes, and teaching patients about safe medication use.
This document provides information about a chemotherapy treatment plan called R-CHOP for a patient. It will involve receiving rituximab, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, and prednisolone over 6 to 8 cycles administered through infusions and injections on days 1 and 1 to 5 respectively of each 3-week cycle. Common side effects may include increased risk of infection, hair loss, fatigue, mouth sores, and nausea, while serious but rare side effects could include extravasation or changes to the heart at higher doses. The document outlines how to manage side effects and contact the clinic if any issues arise.
The document discusses the evaluation and management of comatose patients. It emphasizes assessing ABC (airway, breathing, circulation) and treating any life-threatening issues. Further steps include evaluating neurological responses using the Glasgow Coma Scale, obtaining labs to check for metabolic abnormalities, treating elevated intracranial pressure, and considering intubation if the airway is not protected. Causes of coma like traumatic brain injury, stroke, hepatic encephalopathy, uremia, and diabetic ketoacidosis are explored along with their presentations and management strategies.
This document discusses alternatives to angioplasty and bypass surgery for treating heart disease. It notes that while these procedures provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying causes of atherosclerosis and blockages can reoccur. Lifestyle changes including a low-fat, whole foods diet, stress management, exercise, quitting smoking, and controlling cholesterol and blood pressure are recommended instead to reverse and prevent heart disease. Specific lifestyle interventions discussed include yoga stretches, breathing exercises, meditation, and a plant-based diet low in oils and animal products. The document argues this natural approach can provide lasting benefits without the risks and high costs of invasive procedures.
Heart failure, also known as congestive cardiac failure (CCF), is a chronic condition where the heart muscle is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. The most common causes are coronary artery disease and damage from a previous heart attack. Symptoms include shortness of breath, swelling, fatigue, and coughing. While treatments have improved, the prognosis remains poor and lifelong management is required. Patients must carefully follow medication regimens, monitor symptoms, attend appointments, follow dietary and activity guidelines, and watch for warning signs of worsening condition. Managing CCF well involves balancing medications, lifestyle changes, and seeking medical help promptly for any problems.
Adhesions are lumps of scar tissue that develop inside your body. Previous surgeries cause about ninety percent of abdominal adhesions. They could also develop from trauma, infections, or conditions that cause inflammation.
اختبار قصير: ماذا تعلم عن التغطية الصحية الشاملة؟
أَجِب على أسئلة هذا الاختبار القصير لتتأكد من صحة إجاباتك.
1 تحتفل منظمة الصحة العالمية (المنظمة) في يوم 7 نيسان/ أبريل من كل عام بذكرى إنشائها، باليوم الذي دخل فيه دستورها حيز النفاذ. فكم ستبلغ المنظمة من العمر هذا العام (2018)؟
30 عاماً
50 عاماً
70 عاماً
90 عاماً
2 ما المقصود بالتغطية الصحية الشاملة؟
يُقصد بالتغطية الصحية الشاملة حصول جميع الأفراد والمجتمعات المحلية على الخدمات الصحية اللازمة لهم متى وحيثما لزمتهم.
التغطية الصحية الشاملة تحمي الناس من الوقوع في دائرة الفقر حينما يُسددون تكاليف الخدمات الصحية اللازمة لهم من أموالهم الخاصة.
التغطية الصحية الشاملة تُمكّن جميع الأشخاص من الحصول على الخدمات التي تعالج أهم أسباب الإصابة بالمرض والوفاة.
التغطية الصحية الشاملة تعني تقديم خدمات صحية للأفراد ومختلف فئات السكان كالقضاء على مواقع تكاثر البعوض.
جميع ما سبق.
3 ما نسبة سكان العالم غير القادرين على الحصول على الخدمات الصحية اللازمة لهم؟
ما لا يقل عن 30% من سكان العالم
ما لا يقل عن 50% من سكان العالم
ما لا يقل عن 70% من سكان العالم
ما لا يقل عن 90% من سكان العالم
4 يُدفع نحو 100 مليون شخص في العالم إلى دائرة ’الفقر المدقع‘ (أي يعيشون بدخل لا يتجاوز 1.90 دولاراً أمريكياً في اليوم) بسبب اضطرارهم إلى سداد تكاليف خدمات الرعاية الصحية اللازمة لهم.
صحيح
خطأ
5 من له دور يؤديه في الدعوة إلى تحقيق التغطية الصحية الشاملة؟
أنت
الجماعات غير الهادفة إلى الربح
العاملون في مجال الصحة
وسائط الإعلام
جميع ما سبق
Session 6 se and complications [repaired]
Recovering After Gallbladder Surgery - What to Expect at Home.pdfMeghaSingh194
Gallbladder surgery is a common procedure, but navigating the recovery process, especially recovering after gallbladder surgery, can be daunting. Let's explore more:
OTC Medications - Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)Areej Abu Hanieh
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the enlargement of the prostate gland which commonly affects men over age 40. The enlarged prostate puts pressure on the bladder and urethra, leading to urinary symptoms. Tamsulosin, an alpha-1 blocker available over-the-counter, helps relax the prostate and relieve BPH symptoms such as weak urine flow and frequent urination. Patients should see their doctor within 6 weeks of starting tamsulosin to confirm the BPH diagnosis and determine if continued OTC use is appropriate.
This document provides information about common pregnancy complications, including symptoms and treatment options. It discusses conditions like anemia, depression, gestational diabetes, hepatitis B, high blood pressure during pregnancy, hyperemesis gravidarum, miscarriage, placental problems, preeclampsia, preterm labor, and more. For each complication, it lists associated symptoms and the approaches used to monitor and address the condition. The goal is to help pregnant individuals and their doctors manage health issues that can arise during pregnancy.
The female reproductive system is a very complex system. And as with any system, occasionally, things go wrong. When treatments and therapies can't fix an issue, sometimes surgery is required. Surgery to remove a woman's uterus or womb, a major component of this system, is called hysterectomy
It usually takes about 6 weeks to recover from your c-section but this will depend on your individual situation. If you had any problems during or after your c-section, or if you’re looking after other children at home, you may feel you need more time to recover.
Information For You After a Pelvic Floor Repair OperationMichelle Fynes
This document provides information for women recovering after a pelvic floor repair operation. It details what patients can expect in terms of usual hospital stay length, common after-effects like pain and bleeding, and advice on activities like exercise, diet, and returning to normal activities. The document emphasizes the importance of rest, pelvic floor exercises, mobility, and following an enhanced recovery program to aid in healing and returning to full health as quickly as possible after surgery.
This document provides information about hysterectomies, including what the procedure is, the different types, reasons it may be performed, what to expect before, during, and after surgery, potential side effects and complications, and signs that should prompt contacting a healthcare provider. A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus and can also involve removing the ovaries and/or fallopian tubes. It is commonly performed to treat conditions like abnormal bleeding, fibroids, endometriosis, and various cancers. The procedure usually lasts 1-3 hours and is done under general or regional anesthesia through either an abdominal or vaginal incision. Recovery at home involves gradually increasing activity levels over 4-6 weeks.
CABG surgery is performed to relieve symptoms of coronary artery disease by creating new routes around blocked arteries. The document outlines the care of a patient after CABG surgery both in the hospital and at home. It details instructions for incision care, exercises like deep breathing and walking to improve lung function and heart health, and signs to watch out for and report to the doctor like fever, swelling, or pain. The goal of post-surgery care is for the patient to safely recover and rehabilitate through lifestyle changes and exercise while avoiding risks that could negatively impact healing.
Covid 19 prevention for those living with diabetesBreannaFallon
This document provides information for people with diabetes on preventing, preparing for, and managing COVID-19. It discusses how COVID-19 affects those with diabetes more severely. It recommends calling your doctor if experiencing symptoms, practicing social distancing and hand washing, and getting prepared with supplies like medications and glucose testing materials. If sick, it advises continuing diabetes medications, checking glucose regularly, and watching for dehydration or ketones. It outlines sick day guidelines and when to call the doctor for worsening symptoms.
Surgical F1 Prep Talk - Dafydd Loughranwelshbarbers
This document provides guidance and advice to a surgical trainee beginning their first day on call. It emphasizes being prepared with up-to-date patient information and bloodwork. It discusses appropriately evaluating and managing common acute surgical conditions like appendicitis and pancreatitis. Guidance is provided on consenting for procedures and communicating effectively with referral sources. The overall message is to focus on the basics of patient care and know when to escalate concerns, as the document aims to equip the trainee for typical issues that may arise on their first day on call.
This document provides an overview of intrapartum care and management of common complications during labor and delivery. It discusses monitoring of vital signs and glucose, management of hypertension and diabetes, pain relief options, and care for women with conditions such as epilepsy, cardiac issues, asthma and thrombophilia. It also reviews principles for repair of perineal trauma, management of retained placenta, and postoperative care following delivery.
What to expect before and after lung transplantSandra Tindle
This document outlines what to expect before and after receiving a lung transplant. It discusses the rigorous evaluation process before transplant approval. It describes rehabilitation and testing in the hospital after surgery, including bronchoscopies to monitor the lungs. Recovery takes 1-4 weeks, and patients must stay near the transplant center for 3 months while undergoing frequent testing. Lifelong commitments include taking multiple medications on schedule to prevent rejection and infection.
This document provides information on several classes of cardiovascular medications, including their mechanisms of action, common uses, potential adverse effects, and nursing considerations. It discusses cardiac glycosides like digoxin, nitrate vasodilators like nitroglycerin, antiarrhythmics, diuretics, and beta-blockers. For each class, it outlines how to monitor the patient and assess for desired or adverse effects of the medication. Key nursing responsibilities are also reviewed, such as assessing vital signs, electrolytes, and teaching patients about safe medication use.
This document provides information about a chemotherapy treatment plan called R-CHOP for a patient. It will involve receiving rituximab, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, and prednisolone over 6 to 8 cycles administered through infusions and injections on days 1 and 1 to 5 respectively of each 3-week cycle. Common side effects may include increased risk of infection, hair loss, fatigue, mouth sores, and nausea, while serious but rare side effects could include extravasation or changes to the heart at higher doses. The document outlines how to manage side effects and contact the clinic if any issues arise.
The document discusses the evaluation and management of comatose patients. It emphasizes assessing ABC (airway, breathing, circulation) and treating any life-threatening issues. Further steps include evaluating neurological responses using the Glasgow Coma Scale, obtaining labs to check for metabolic abnormalities, treating elevated intracranial pressure, and considering intubation if the airway is not protected. Causes of coma like traumatic brain injury, stroke, hepatic encephalopathy, uremia, and diabetic ketoacidosis are explored along with their presentations and management strategies.
This document discusses alternatives to angioplasty and bypass surgery for treating heart disease. It notes that while these procedures provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying causes of atherosclerosis and blockages can reoccur. Lifestyle changes including a low-fat, whole foods diet, stress management, exercise, quitting smoking, and controlling cholesterol and blood pressure are recommended instead to reverse and prevent heart disease. Specific lifestyle interventions discussed include yoga stretches, breathing exercises, meditation, and a plant-based diet low in oils and animal products. The document argues this natural approach can provide lasting benefits without the risks and high costs of invasive procedures.
Heart failure, also known as congestive cardiac failure (CCF), is a chronic condition where the heart muscle is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. The most common causes are coronary artery disease and damage from a previous heart attack. Symptoms include shortness of breath, swelling, fatigue, and coughing. While treatments have improved, the prognosis remains poor and lifelong management is required. Patients must carefully follow medication regimens, monitor symptoms, attend appointments, follow dietary and activity guidelines, and watch for warning signs of worsening condition. Managing CCF well involves balancing medications, lifestyle changes, and seeking medical help promptly for any problems.
Adhesions are lumps of scar tissue that develop inside your body. Previous surgeries cause about ninety percent of abdominal adhesions. They could also develop from trauma, infections, or conditions that cause inflammation.
اختبار قصير: ماذا تعلم عن التغطية الصحية الشاملة؟
أَجِب على أسئلة هذا الاختبار القصير لتتأكد من صحة إجاباتك.
1 تحتفل منظمة الصحة العالمية (المنظمة) في يوم 7 نيسان/ أبريل من كل عام بذكرى إنشائها، باليوم الذي دخل فيه دستورها حيز النفاذ. فكم ستبلغ المنظمة من العمر هذا العام (2018)؟
30 عاماً
50 عاماً
70 عاماً
90 عاماً
2 ما المقصود بالتغطية الصحية الشاملة؟
يُقصد بالتغطية الصحية الشاملة حصول جميع الأفراد والمجتمعات المحلية على الخدمات الصحية اللازمة لهم متى وحيثما لزمتهم.
التغطية الصحية الشاملة تحمي الناس من الوقوع في دائرة الفقر حينما يُسددون تكاليف الخدمات الصحية اللازمة لهم من أموالهم الخاصة.
التغطية الصحية الشاملة تُمكّن جميع الأشخاص من الحصول على الخدمات التي تعالج أهم أسباب الإصابة بالمرض والوفاة.
التغطية الصحية الشاملة تعني تقديم خدمات صحية للأفراد ومختلف فئات السكان كالقضاء على مواقع تكاثر البعوض.
جميع ما سبق.
3 ما نسبة سكان العالم غير القادرين على الحصول على الخدمات الصحية اللازمة لهم؟
ما لا يقل عن 30% من سكان العالم
ما لا يقل عن 50% من سكان العالم
ما لا يقل عن 70% من سكان العالم
ما لا يقل عن 90% من سكان العالم
4 يُدفع نحو 100 مليون شخص في العالم إلى دائرة ’الفقر المدقع‘ (أي يعيشون بدخل لا يتجاوز 1.90 دولاراً أمريكياً في اليوم) بسبب اضطرارهم إلى سداد تكاليف خدمات الرعاية الصحية اللازمة لهم.
صحيح
خطأ
5 من له دور يؤديه في الدعوة إلى تحقيق التغطية الصحية الشاملة؟
أنت
الجماعات غير الهادفة إلى الربح
العاملون في مجال الصحة
وسائط الإعلام
جميع ما سبق
Session 6 se and complications [repaired]
Recovering After Gallbladder Surgery - What to Expect at Home.pdfMeghaSingh194
Gallbladder surgery is a common procedure, but navigating the recovery process, especially recovering after gallbladder surgery, can be daunting. Let's explore more:
OTC Medications - Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)Areej Abu Hanieh
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the enlargement of the prostate gland which commonly affects men over age 40. The enlarged prostate puts pressure on the bladder and urethra, leading to urinary symptoms. Tamsulosin, an alpha-1 blocker available over-the-counter, helps relax the prostate and relieve BPH symptoms such as weak urine flow and frequent urination. Patients should see their doctor within 6 weeks of starting tamsulosin to confirm the BPH diagnosis and determine if continued OTC use is appropriate.
This document provides information about common pregnancy complications, including symptoms and treatment options. It discusses conditions like anemia, depression, gestational diabetes, hepatitis B, high blood pressure during pregnancy, hyperemesis gravidarum, miscarriage, placental problems, preeclampsia, preterm labor, and more. For each complication, it lists associated symptoms and the approaches used to monitor and address the condition. The goal is to help pregnant individuals and their doctors manage health issues that can arise during pregnancy.
1. Post-OpInfo
Althougheveryonerecoversatadifferentrate,you'll needaboutsix toeightweeksof healingbefore
youcan go back to yournormal routine.If youhave undergone BeatingHeartBypassSurgeryand/or
endoscopicveinharvestingduringyourbypasssurgery, youmayfindyourrecoverytobe quicker.
Duringthat time,keepintouchwithyourdoctor andfollow hisorher instructions.The followingpost
op instructionare providedforyourreview.
• General PostOperative Instructions
•Valve SurgeryPostOperative Instructions
• Gettingthe FamilyInvolved
•Sex afterSurgery
General Post-OperativeInstructions
Many questionsarise astowhat youshoulddoor shouldnotdoafterdischarge.The followingare
answerstothe mostcommonconcernsand questions.
•While the sternum(breastbone) ishealing,avoidliftinggreaterthan10 pounds,orpushing/pulling
activitieswithyourarms. The breastbone takesabout6-8 weekstoheal generally.
•Showersare permittedbuttubbathsare discouragedfor4-6 weeksoruntil yourincisionsare healed.
Avoidextremelyhotwaterwhichmaycause youto feel dizzyorweak.Youmaygentlywash(don'trub)
your incisionwithsoap.Donotuse creamsor lotionsonincisionsuntil theyare healed.
•Avoiddrivingacar for4-6 weeksaftersurgery.Yourreactiontime will be delayeddue toweakness,
fatigue,and/ormedication.Youdonotwant to riskhittingthe steeringwheel andre-injuringthe
sternum.Whenridingina car for longdistances,stopevery1-2hoursto stretch yourlegs.Thiswill
improve circulationinyourlegsandhelppreventswelling.
•Do not cross yourlegswhile lyinginbedorsitting.Thisputspressure onthe veinsunderthe kneesand
slowsbloodflow.If yourlegsorfeetswell,youshouldputthemona chair or stool while sitting.
•Sleepthe numberof hoursthat younormallysleptbeforeyoursurgery.Donotstay up verylate one
nightand try to "catch-up"the next.However,if youdoplantostay up late,take a nap beforehand.
•Avoid isometrics: strainingtomove yourbowels,pushing/pullingheavyobjects,orworkingwithyour
arms overhead.These activitiesdisproportionatelyelevate bloodpressure andputan addedstrainona
healingheart.
•It is importanttospace and pace youractivitiesto minimize fatigue.If youfeel tired,STOP,andrestfor
a while.Don'tpushyourself tofinishatask.
2. •A rest periodshouldbe takenatleastonce a day fora few weeksand,initially,preferablytwice,
morningandafternoon.Nappingisnotnecessary,butrestingis.Be sure todressdailyinstreetclothes.
You are onyour wayto recovery!
•Stair climbingisnotdiscouraged.Avoidpullingyourself upwithahandrail,andgo slowly.
•Use your elasticstockingsduringthe dayandremove thematnight.You shouldwearthe stockingsfor
at least2 weeksafterdischarge ormore if youranklesare still swollen.The stockingsaidbloodflowand
helpreduce swellinginthe legs.Itiseasiesttoputthe stockingsonbefore yougetoutof bedinthe
morningforthe day, howevermostpeopleputthemonaftera morningshower.Theyshouldfitsnugly.
•Your may notice a swellingorlumpat the top of your chestincisionwhichcouldtake severalmonthsto
disappear.
•Most patientsexperience incisionaldiscomfort inthe sternum.Thisdiscomfortwill decrease intime,
but mayreoccur whenthere isas an adverse change inthe weatherorwhenyouoverextendyourself.
Do not hesitate touse painrelievingmedicationasyouneedit.
•It is importanttodistinguishincisional discomfortfromchestpain(angina) youmayhave experienced
priorto surgery.Contact yourphysicianif youare experiencingchestpain.
•If yourchest or legincisionsdonotappeartobe healing(i.e.,redness,drainage,swelling,or
tenderness ispresent),notifyyourphysician.
•Take yourtemperature everymorningforone weekafterdischarge.Notifyyourphysicianif your
temperature staysabove 100 degreesFfor more thana day.
•Checkyour weighteverymorningforthe firsttwoweeks.If younotice asuddenweightgain,notify
your physician.
•Whenyou are upset,yourheartworksharder.It isbestto anticipate andavoidsituations,people,or
topicsof conversationthatmake youtense orangry.
•Rememberthatyourdiet,medications,andexercise are prescribedspecificallyforyou.Donot expect
your friendorneighborwhohasa heartconditiontohave the same prescriptions.
•Keepa recordof yourmedicationsandmedical historywithyouwhentraveling. (ReturntoTop)
Valve SurgeryPost-OpCare
Tell anydoctor or dentistwhotreatsyouthat youhave had your valve repairedorreplaced.Theymay
prescribe antibioticsbefore procedures,especiallydental work,topreventaninfectionfromsettlingin
your heart.
It islikelythatyouwill be takingCoumadin,ananticoagulant,commonlycalleda"bloodthinner."
Coumadincausesbloodtotake a longertime toform a clot.
3. There are several pointsyoushouldknow aboutCoumadin:
•You will need regularbloodtests(prothrombintime) toregulate the dosage of Coumadin.Your
physicianwill arrange these testforyou.
•Look for signsof bleedingwhileyouare takingCoumadin.Notifyyourphysicianif youhave:◦any
abnormal bleeding
◦red or black bowel movements
◦pinkor red urine
◦severe headaches,abdominalorlowerbackpain
◦faintnessordizziness
◦red or "coffee groundlike"vomitus
◦excessivebruising
◦excessivenose bleeds
◦yelloworjaundice skin
◦any symptomsthatconcernyou
•Take yourCoumadinat the same time everyday.NEVERmake up fora misseddose bytakingdouble
the dose.
•Don't take aspirin,anymedicationcontainingaspirinorany"over-the-counter"medicationswithout
firstcheckingwithyourphysicianasthiscan cause bleedingwhiletakingCoumadin.
•Excessive alcohol intakemayalsocause bleedingwhile takingCoumadin.Checkwithyourphysician
aboutdrinkingalcohol.
•It is a goodideato carry a walletidentificationcardindicatingthatyouare takingCoumadin. (Return
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RecoveringfromOpenHeartSurgeryisa FamilyAffair
Openheartsurgeryis an eventthataffectsthe patient,spouse,children,andsignificantothers.Itis
similartothe ripple effectinapondwhena stone isdropped.Manywavesoccur before the pond
eventuallycalms.Inadditiontothe physical recoverythatthe patientundergoes,there isanemotional
aspectof adjustmentthatthe patient,aswell asfamily,experience.
4. Facing the possibilityof changingone'slifestyle canbe quite overwhelming.Some alterationstake place
immediately,suchasdiet changesandsmokingcessation.Otherchangesmaybe more gradual,suchas
buildinguptoand maintaininganexercise program, orincorporatinglongtermstressmanagement.Of
importance toall those involvedisrealizingthatthe patientdoeshave control ininitiatingthe changes
and inmaintaininghealthynewhabits.Thisisthe patient'sresponsibility.Spouses,children,and
significantothersoftenstruggle withthe impossible taskof makingsure the patientneverdeviatesoff
course and stayson the "straightand narrow'.Remember,otherscanassistandencourage,butonlythe
patientcan do!
Many lifestyle changesthatoccuras a resultof havingopenheartsurgeryhave a directimpacton the
entire household.Whenapatientisforcedtomake changesforhealthreasons,veryoftenall minds
start to thinkalongthe same lines.Thisisespeciallytrue forotherswhomightpossiblybe predisposed
to coronary arterydisease.Therefore,if the recoveringpatienthasstoppedsmoking,familymembers
whosmoke are nowmotivatedtoquit.Andwhenmealsnow needtobe preparedinaheart-healthy
fashion,chancesare those whodine togetherwillalsobe makingthese changesoutof practicalityfor
the cook resultingfromarenewedawarenessof the benefitsto the heart.
Recoveringfromopenheartsurgerycreatestemporaryrole changesandresponsibilityshiftsamong
familymembers.Whenthe recoveringpatientreturnshome,he/she will have temporaryphysical
limitationsanddependencieswhichthe familymemberscompensate.The husbandwill needtoshop
and carry packagesfor hisrecoveringwife whocanneitherdrive herself tothe store norliftheavy
packages.The son or daughterwill have tomow the lawnand take outthe garbage for theirrecovering
father, whonowhas to limitexertionwhile he rebuildshisstrength.
Justas the familyneedstocoordinate effortsinassistingthe patientduringhislimitationphase,so
shouldtheyenable himtoincrease hisindependence andregainhislevelof self reliance.Thisprovesto
be a verydelicate balance andcanbe a cause of friction.Stayinginformedof the doctors
recommendationsonhowthe patientshouldprogresscanminimize the stressof thistransitional period
for boththe patientandfamily.
Recovery will be achallenge forthe openheartsurgerypatientandhis/herfamily.There willbe daysof
highenergyandof fatigue,accomplishments,momentsof temptation,feelingsof exuberance andeven
daysof feelingblue orangry,all of whichare a part of the physical andemotional healingprocessthat
takesplace.