Post-Cardiac Surgery Care Guide

Introduction

Recovering from cardiac surgery requires careful attention to your body's signals and following your medical team's instructions. Whether you've had coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve repair/replacement, or another heart procedure, this guide will help you navigate your recovery.

In the Hospital (Days 1-7)

What to Expect

Immediately after surgery:

• You'll wake up in the ICU with various monitors and tubes
• A breathing tube may be in place initially
• You'll have chest tubes to drain fluid
• IV lines for medications and fluids

Progression:

• Most patients move to a regular room within 1-2 days
• Physical therapists will help you start walking
• Tubes and monitors are gradually removed as you improve

Pain Management

Some discomfort is normal:

• Chest incision soreness
• Muscle aches from positioning during surgery
• Throat soreness from the breathing tube

Take your pain medication as prescribed - keeping pain controlled helps you move and recover faster.

First Weeks at Home

Wound Care

For your chest incision:

• Keep the area clean and dry
• Watch for signs of infection (redness, swelling, drainage, fever)
• Don't apply lotions or powders to the incision
• Support your chest when coughing or sneezing (hold a pillow firmly against it)

For leg incisions (if bypass grafts were taken from your leg):

• Elevate your legs when sitting
• Wear compression stockings as directed
• Report any increased swelling, redness, or drainage

Activity Guidelines

Weeks 1-2:

• Walk for 5 minutes, 3-4 times daily
• Rest when tired
• Avoid lifting more than 5 pounds
• No driving

Weeks 3-4:

• Gradually increase walking to 10-15 minutes
• Light household activities permitted
• Still avoid lifting more than 10 pounds

Weeks 5-8:

• Build up to 20-30 minutes of walking
• May resume driving (with doctor's approval)
• Slowly increase lifting limits

Warning Signs - Call Your Doctor If:

• Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
• Increased redness, swelling, or drainage from incisions
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath that worsens
• Chest pain not relieved by rest
• Excessive fatigue
• Dizziness or fainting

Medications

You'll likely be prescribed several medications:

Common Post-Surgery Medications

Keep an updated medication list and bring it to all appointments.

Diet and Nutrition

Heart-Healthy Eating

• Sodium: Less than 2,000 mg daily
• Fats: Choose unsaturated over saturated fats
• Protein: Include lean sources like fish, poultry, beans
• Fiber: Eat whole grains, fruits, and vegetables

Special Considerations

• If you're on warfarin, maintain consistent vitamin K intake
• Some medications should be taken with food
• Stay hydrated, but limit fluids if you have heart failure

Emotional Recovery

Common Feelings

It's normal to experience:

• Mood swings
• Anxiety or depression
• Frustration with slow progress
• Fear about the future

Coping Strategies

• Join a cardiac rehabilitation program
• Connect with support groups
• Talk openly with family about your feelings
• Consider professional counseling if needed

Returning to Activities

Work

• Office work: 4-6 weeks
• Physical labor: 8-12 weeks or longer
• Discuss specific requirements with your doctor

Driving

• Typically 4-6 weeks after surgery
• Must be off strong pain medications
• Should be able to make emergency stops

Sexual Activity

• Usually safe after 4-6 weeks
• When you can climb two flights of stairs comfortably
• Discuss any concerns with your doctor

Long-Term Outlook

Cardiac surgery can significantly improve your quality of life. To maintain these benefits:

1. Attend all follow-up appointments
2. Take medications as prescribed
3. Participate in cardiac rehabilitation
4. Maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle
5. Manage risk factors (blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes)

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Your commitment to recovery and healthy lifestyle changes is the key to long-term success. Don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team with any questions or concerns.