Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery | Discharge

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AFTER YOUR OPERATION

	DISCHARGE PHASE AT HOME
ASSESSMENT AND/OR MONITORING	Your surgeon will generally inform you a day prior to your anticipated discharge. The health care team will speak to you and your family to prepare you for care at home. If there is a skilled nursing referral indicated, the case manager will coordinate home care services.
TEACHING	Community referrals can be made by the Health Care Team if additional support services are needed. Members of your Health Care Team will review guidelines for after care. Monitor yourself for potential signs of fluid retention such as: increasing ankle swelling, weight gain, and shortness of breath. In the early post-operative period (2 - 6 weeks) contact your surgeon for the following: Onset of redness, change in drainage, increased swelling, odor of wound "Clicking" feeling in your chest Constipation Sleeping disturbances Medication questions Temperature over 101 Generally, any significant change in your condition. Discharge Instructions as well as follow-up appointments will be thoroughly reviewed with you by the Staff prior to your discharge from the hospital.
LABWORK	After your surgery, routine blood tests, chest x-rays and EKG's will be done as needed.
MEDICATIONS	Take only the medications prescribed by your surgeon until you see your medical doctor. Prescriptions will be given to you on your day of discharge. Heart-Smart Tip: Take your medications as prescribed.
ACTIVITY	Progress to independent walking. Short frequent walks are recommended. Follow the activity program reviewed by your physical therapist. You may walk stairs. Avoid heavy lifting. No driving until cleared by surgeon. Be sure to continue your breathing exercises and use your incentive spirometer. SEXUAL ACTIVITY: You may resume sexual activity as tolerated.Consult your primary care physician if you have any questions. SLEEPING: Sleeping patterns may not return to normal during the early post-op period. Recommendations: (1) Avoid naps during the day (2) Take pain medication as prescribed
DIET AND NUTRITION	Continue the diet prescribed by your doctor. A dietitian will meet with you and your family prior to discharge to review your individualized diet plan. Please attend a cardiac nutrition class offered on 4 North.
TREATMENTS	Check your incisions daily. Shower and wash over incisions with soap and water.
PREPARATION FOR GOING HOME	Discharge time is 10:00 AM. Please make any necessary arrangements to be picked up from the hospital. Be ready to leave on time.