Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When I squeeze the handles it doesn’t seem to give me any support?
A: The chest strap is made of Velcro®; If there is not enough tension in the chest strap the handles will touch or actually pass each other when squeezed together. The way to get more tension in the chest strap is to move the handles away from each other and center of your sternum. Simply undo the Velcro® holding each handle and pull it towards your back bringing the handle farther away from the center of your chest. Do the same for the other side. Make adjustments in small increments keeping the handles symmetrical and centered and the same distance away from your sternum.
Q: The chest strap is riding up and rubbing under my arm pits.
A: There are adjustable shoulder straps – like suspenders connected to the chest strap. These shoulder straps control the height of the chest strap and level of the handles.
Q: How high should the handles be?
A: For men the handles should be mid sternum bone with the middle of the handles around the nipple line, equidistant from your sternal wound. For women the handles should rest above the breasts. In both cases the handles should be about one hand width apart so that you can reach both handles and squeeze with one or both hands.
Q: The back of the chest strap rides up towards my back. How do I fix this?
A: If the back of the chest strap is riding up your back while sitting down or lying in bed, lean forward and have a family member or caregiver gently tug the chest strap downward while lightly lifting the handles back up into proper position.
Q: Can I use both of my hands?
A: Yes.
Q: The chest strap is rubbing under my armpits: How do I fix this?
A: You have the shoulder straps too tight. Loosen the shoulder straps and lower the chest belt away from armpits. Be sure to make even adjustments to the shoulder straps to keep the handles even in the front.
Q: How long do I wear Heart Hugger?
A: We recommend that you wear Heart Hugger from the time it is put on in the ICU, throughout your hospital stay and then readjusted to be worn over your street clothes for 4-6 weeks at home. You should wear it day and night except in the shower.
Q: Can Heart Hugger be washed?
A: Yes, we recommend that it be soaked in a mild detergent and then air dried.
Q: What is the pouch for?
A: The pouch included with your Heart Hugger is meant to be used by your nursing staff while in the hospital for placement of the wireless telemetry unit that keeps track of your vital signs. You can continue to use the pouch at home to hold the remote or phone.