Transition Tips From Hospital to Home After Heart Surgery

On any given day, thousands of people across the U.S. are undergoing heart surgery, from complex procedures like open-heart surgery to less invasive valve repairs. These surgeries are often life-saving, enabling individuals to regain their health and continue enjoying an active lifestyle.

However, the transition from hospital to home after heart surgery can feel daunting. While the round-the-clock care and monitoring in the hospital provide reassurance, recovering at home offers unique benefits that can significantly contribute to healing. Resting in your own bed, savoring homemade meals, enjoying fresh air, and being surrounded by the comforts of home can promote both physical recovery and emotional well-being.

To help ensure a smooth recovery, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. In addition, these heart surgery recovery tips can make the process easier and more effective:

Caring for Your Incision

Proper incision care is crucial for preventing infections and ensuring healing. Keep these tips in mind:

• Gently clean the incision with soap and water, being careful not to scrub.
• Avoid applying creams, lotions, or powders to the incision until it has fully healed.
• Keep the area dry and monitor it for any signs of redness, swelling, or discharge.

Managing Pain Effectively

Pain is a normal part of recovery but should be manageable with the right approach:

• Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to ease discomfort. Take it as directed.
• Expect sensations such as itching, tightness, or numbness around the incision – these are normal and will improve over time.

Sleeping and Eating Well

Getting adequate sleep and following a proper diet play a key role in recovery:

• Temporary sleep disruptions are common after surgery. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine and creating a calm sleeping environment can help. Normal sleep patterns typically return within a few months.
• Follow any dietary guidelines provided by your doctor. A balanced, heart-healthy diet is essential for recovery and long-term health. If your appetite is reduced initially, know that it will likely return within a few weeks.

Reducing Swelling

Swelling in the lower body is a common postoperative symptom, but it can be managed effectively:

• Elevate your feet above heart level three times a day. Note that recliners do not provide adequate elevation.
• Avoid crossing your legs while sitting or lying down, as this can restrict blood flow and increase pressure on veins.

Staying Active Safely

Gradual activity is an important part of the healing process, but it’s essential to avoid overexertion:

• Refrain from lifting objects heavier than 20 pounds until cleared by your doctor.
• Walking is highly beneficial. Your healthcare provider or cardiac rehabilitation specialist will provide specific guidance on the duration and intensity of your walks.

Cognitive and Emotional Health

Heart surgery impacts not only the body but also the mind. Recovery often includes mental and emotional adjustments:

• It’s normal to experience some cognitive challenges, such as memory lapses or difficulty concentrating. These typically improve with time.
• Avoid stress and conflict whenever possible. Emotional upset can place additional strain on your heart, so seek out activities and environments that promote relaxation.

When to Call Your Doctor

Pay attention to your body and report any concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider. Call your doctor if you experience:

• A fever of 101°F or higher on more than one occasion, or persistent chills.
• Excessive redness, swelling, or drainage from the incision site.
• Increased fatigue, shortness of breath, or unrelieved pain.
• A feeling of instability in the sternum, such as popping, cracking, or movement.

Support for Recovery at Home

Recovering from heart surgery is a journey best undertaken with the right support system. Advanced Home Health Care is here to provide expert assistance during this critical time. Our professional care team can help with everything from monitoring symptoms to assisting with daily activities and lifestyle changes, ensuring a safe and comfortable recovery in the familiar surroundings of home.

We proudly serve Mediapolis, Burlington, Fort Madison, and throughout Southeast Iowa, offering care customized to meet your unique needs. Contact us today at 800.791.7785 to learn how we can make the recovery process as smooth and stress-free as possible.