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Exploring Health Care Needs of Children


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Exploring Health Care Needs of Children

Hello, I am Nichole Rapids. As a parent of two young children, I am no stranger to the local healthcare clinic. Whenever the kids run a high fever, suffer from ear pain, or exhibit strange symptoms, I bring them into the clinic for an immediate checkup. The kids also receive all of the vaccinations on the given schedule at this clinic. I want to use this site to talk about the healthcare needs of children. I want to share information about procedures performed at the local clinic and reasons to go into the hospital instead. My site will also discuss various situations that necessitate a call to the triage nurse. I hope that my website will help other parents keep their kids healthy from infancy to adulthood.

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Four Things To Expect After Open Heart Surgery

Regardless of the cause, open heart surgery is an extensive procedure for any patient. To aid in the recovery process, it is important to be as prepared as possible for your life after surgery. Learn what to expect after your surgery so that you can make the necessary preparations.

1. You'll Need to Make Changes to Your Diet

Though your cardiologist will offer specific recommendations, you'll likely need to make changes to your diet after having open heart surgery. Most cardiologists recommend that their patients follow a diet low in fat and sodium to prevent the occurrence of future heart problems. If you're unsure about what you can and cannot eat, see if your cardiologist can refer you to a dietitian who specializes in heart healthy nutrition.

2. Full Recovery Can Take Weeks or Even Months

Patients who have had open heart surgery frequently report that it takes weeks or even months for them to feel like their old selves. Not only does your incision need to heal, but you have to restore strength to your heart.

Since you'll likely be doing a lot of resting in the weeks after your surgery, make sure you have plenty of items to keep you entertained. TV shows, movies, books, puzzle books, and handheld games are just a few ways to alleviate boredom. Check that you have a comfortable place to relax during your recovery. Many patients find that a recliner is a terrific option due to the ability to customize its position.

When it is time to head back to work, take things slow. Instead of trying to go back to work full time, ease back into it. If possible, start by working a part time schedule with shorter work days until you regain your strength.

3. Heavy Lifting is a No-no

Though your personal restrictions may vary, most cardiologists prohibit heart surgery patients from lifting more than 10 pounds for approximately six weeks after surgery. If you have small children or pets, try to make accommodations before your surgery. For example, if your are used to lifting your dog on the bed, install a ramp to help your pet get on the bed himself. It is a smart idea to recruit a set of extra hands if you have children that you need to lift.

4. Stay off the Road

You will be unable to drive a car until your sternum is completely healed. In most cases, this takes six to eight weeks. During this time, it makes sense to have a friend or family member run your errands. If you have to get out of the house, utilize the services of a taxi or transportation service.

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