Each year millions of people around the world undergo some sort of heart surgery. The recovery period for these procedures is based on a number of things. They type of surgery itself will play a role in recovery. Along with this is the need to pay strict attention to doctor’s instructions. Your incision is a focal point in this process. Taking care of the incision point is very important. These are some of the steps for incision care:
- Clean and Dry Wound
- Use Only Soap and Water
- Maintain a Healthy Diet
- Protect Incision Site
Heart Hugger is a fine example of a support product for the sternum. This is a useful product that can help patients after their heart surgeries. It is strategic when it comes to protecting the incision site. Each of the steps for securing this site is a part of the recovery process. Let’s take a look at some other things to consider in this area.
Watch for Infection
Doctors will instruct patients of heart surgery to keep an eye out for infection. This condition could lead to further problems and more hospital time. It is important to have assistance when it comes to recovery from heart surgery. The severity of your procedure will impact how long it will take to recovery. Assisted care is available through many insurance plans, which includes nurses and other healthcare professionals. They will watch for infection in the site of your incision.
Prevent Incision Opening
It is paramount that your wound not open before it is completely healed. A part of watching your incision is ensuring that this does not happen. This is another reason why doctors often encourage the purchase of harnesses. These are designed to protect the area. Opening of this site could cause infection and other related problems.
According to WebMD, patients of heart surgery should focus on a few other things, as well. If temperatures rise above 101 F, you must consult your doctor. Along with this problem, it is important to report redness in the incision area, as well as, prolonged pain. Some patients feel discomfort in the sternum and want support to protect the area. Harness products like the Heart Hugger are handy resources.