An important part of your recovery following open-heart surgery is
gradually increasing your strength and physical activity. A structured
in-hospital exercise program will guide you through four progressive steps,
from sitting up in bed to walking in the halls with minimal assistance.
4-step program to increase strength |
Step 1 |
- Sit up in bed with
assistance.
- Stand up at bedside with assistance.
- Sit up
in chair for 15 to 30 min. (2 or 3 times a day).
- Perform self-care
activities while seated
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Step 2 |
- Sit up in bed
independently.
- Stand up independently.
- Walk around room
and to bathroom.
- Perform self-care activities in the
bathroom.
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|
Step 3 |
- Sit and stand up
independently.
- Walk short distances (50 to 100 feet) in the hall
with assistance.
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|
Step 4 |
- Perform self-care activities, including
bathing.
- Walk short distances (150 to 200 feet) in the hall with
little assistance.
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As your strength increases, your recovery team (doctors, nurses, and
physical therapists) will encourage you to gradually increase the amount of
walking in the halls that you do. The goal is to raise your heart rate and
increase your circulation.
