This discharge education video gives heart surgery patients an overview of what patients can expect before they leave the hospital, and care during the first few weeks of recovery. It stresses that even though they are leaving the hospital their recovery is still ongoing. Specific guidelines include the drive home, physical activity restrictions, continuing breathing exercises, developing a daily routine, taking medications, incision care, signs of infection, resuming activity including sexual activity, when to contact a healthcare provider, and coping with common emotions after surgery. The video presents long term heart healthy lifestyle changes and the benefits of attending cardiac rehabilitation.
