Soreness and pain
• Pain from your incisions: If you have pain around your incisions or in your chest, your doctor may prescribe a pain reliever and/or a sleeping pill. Be sure to take this medication only as directed.
• Pain medication: Taking your pain medication when the incision areas or muscles start to feel uncomfortable will help you keep up with your activities.
• Better sleep: You may sleep better if you take pain medicine or sleeping pills along with a light snack before you try to go to sleep.
• Relieve soreness: During the first month after surgery, you may have muscle soreness in the front and back of your upper body and arms. A warm heating pad or a gentle back rub may help relax sore muscles in your back and shoulders. As you return to normal activities, this discomfort should decrease.

Rest
• Pace yourself. It is important to pace yourself. You may find that you tire more easily during your healing period.
• Rest. Getting plenty of rest will help you get your strength back faster.
• Be patient. Try to be patient with your body. Pushing yourself too hard or trying to do too much at once can slow down your recovery.
• Plan rest periods. During the first month at home, two 20 to 30 minute rest periods (one mid-morning and one mid-afternoon) are recommended. In addition, rest for a few minutes after each activity and whenever you feel tired. Pay attention to how your body feels.
• Keep naps short. Avoid taking a nap for more than about an hour total during the day. Napping for too long during the day can cause you to have trouble sleeping at night.
• Rest comfortably. During the first week or so at home, you may be more comfortable if you rest in an upright position, such as in a reclining chair or on several pillows, rather than in a flat bed.

How Will I Feel?
Cardiac Surgery Clinical Path Patient/ Family Guide