Personal items should be kept in the car. Stay in bed until the breathing tube is removed and you are fully awake, then sit in a chair. You may have ice, water, or juice after tube is removed and bowel sounds return. You can use the I.V. pain machine as you need it, or you can take pills when bowel sounds return. Family members will not be contacted about your surgery until it is over.
Heart surgery can last from two to six hours.
Family members might want to bring a book or other hobbies to help pass the time.