Preparing to go Home from Waterbury Hospital

Progressive Care/Discharge Care
As you get better, you will continue your deep breathing exercises.It is important to do these exercises to prevent collapse of the tiny air sacs in the lungs and prevent pneumonia. You need to cough in order to clear the mucous in your lungs. Holding the heart pillow against your incision when coughing will support your chest and lessen the discomfort.

Your IV lines will be removed with the exception of one small catheter in your arm.Your nurse will use this IV for administering certain medications.

You will slowly begin to eat ice chips, and then clear liquids and finally a solid diet based on your tolerance.Although you may not have an appetite, eating is an important part of the healing process. You will be visited by one of our dietitians to help you to continue with heart-healthy eating at home.

Once the lines, tubes, and drains are removed after the surgery, you will start to become more active.At first, you will be sitting on the edge of the bed. The day after surgery, our Physical Therapist will assist you to sit in a chair, and eventually walk with your around your room and the hospital unit. The Cardiac Rehabilitation Team will come visit with you to begin discussing your activities after surgery. Together, you will continue to increase your activity level, walking a little further each day and adding some exercises to help you regain strength. Your heart monitor will be changed to a portable device that will allow you to walk around the unit.

Controlling your pain is very important to us.You must tell your nurse when you are having pain. You may notice an increase in the aches and pains as you continue to become more active. It is important to manage this pain so you can take part fully in the healing process.

We will continue to provide you and your family/friends with the education you need to go home from the hospital.The Case Manager will visit you and discuss any needs or concerns you may have with going home. If you need assistance at home, your Case Manager will make these arrangements with you. The Case Management department can be reached by calling (203) 573-7260.