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As a recovery nurse, you know that reassurance is just as important as the medical care you give your patients following surgery. They've trusted medical professionals to get them through surgery, but they know that for many of the long days and weeks that follow, they'll be at home navigating the recovery process.

For many heart surgery patients, the Heart Hugger Sternum Support Harness helps them better manage their pain during recovery. And because Heart Hugger lets patients decide when to apply pressure, they feel more in control of their pain and the entire healing process.

You have plenty of experience in the field of medicine and healing. You know the ins and outs, the ups and downs--and even though your patients trust you, they just can't see eye-to-eye with you on cardiac rehab, simply because they don't have the same specialized knowledge that you do. Bridging the gap between what you know and what your patients know is important, but sometimes it can be difficult when you're so focused on the healing process itself. That's why it's helpful to take a moment to review cardiac rehab from a patient's perspective.

Anyone who's ever had to let their body heal before (which is just about all of us) can attest that the healing process is important--and that is never more true than when it comes to cardiac rehab. Healing is a journey, and with a device like Heart Hugger, that journey can be easier, quicker, and more painless than ever.

Sternum Support

One of the most important parts of healing for cardiac rehab is sternum support. Providing safe, comfortable protection to the body and the incision, sternum support garments help to speed healing and improve patient comfort.

How?

Undergoing heart surgery creates a host of emotions. The best way to minimize nervousness is to prepare. Recovery is six to eight weeks long, and steps you take before and after will result in a successful recovery.

Preparing for Heart Surgery

• Coordinate Support: Compile a list of individuals who are willing to help you, including two primary people who will take care of the bulk of your needs. Have them monitor the number of visitors who come to see you.

• Prepare Your Body: Retaining a regular exercise schedule and booking massage therapy will aid in preparation for surgery as well as improve recovery time.

• Set Up an Area of Comfort: Post-surgery you will be unable to lie in bed, so establish a recliner or other comfortable furniture before surgery.