Answers

Heart Surgery Instructions

Call 911 or go to Emergency Room if you experience:

  • Chest pain (angina-like) similar to preoperative pain
  • Shortness of breath not relieved by rest
  • Coughing up bright red blood
  • Sudden numbness or weakness in arms or legs
  • Sudden, severe headache
  • Fainting spells
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Bright red stool

    • Vascular Surgery Instructions

  • We encourage walking and getting outdoors, weather permitting.
  • You may go up and down stairs slowly.
  • You may drive when your pain is gone, usually within one or two weeks.
  • You may ride in a car. During long trips, get out and walk around every two hours.
  • Do not lift objects heavier than 10 pounds for six weeks.
  • Discuss with your doctor when you can return to work. This will depend on the type of work you do.
  • Resume your preoperative diet unless instructed otherwise.
  • You may resume sexual relations two to four weeks after surgery.
  • You may use laxatives of choice as needed.
  • You may bathe or shower as usual.
  • Resume your preoperative medications unless otherwise instructed.