You may be uncomfortable due to the monitoring equipment. Nurses frequently assist you in turning, coughing, and deep breathing during this time to promote a healthy recovery. Family members and close friends are usually welcome to visit for short periods of time. When intensive care monitoring is no longer needed, you will be moved to a routine-care hospital floor. A patient's average stay is several days.
Patients are often surprised at how quickly they feel better and can resume normal daily activities.
Patients often feel physically much better after the operation, because they are no longer hindered by the symptoms of heart valve disease. Patients usually find that their symptoms improve gradually in the first few weeks postoperatively, noting the most marked changes several weeks and months into their recovery. To facilitate recovery at home, your doctor typically will prescribe a graduated regime of exercise and may recommend a special diet. It is important that you have specific guidance for resuming familiar activities such as household tasks, exercise, driving, and returning to work. Take all medications exactly as prescribed.