sternal precautions handout with pictures pdf

3.3 Restrictions on Raising Arms Overhead

Raising arms overhead can strain the sternum and disrupt healing. Patients should avoid activities like reaching high shelves or pulling objects. Handouts often include images demonstrating safe arm movements and alternative strategies to minimize risk, ensuring compliance and promoting a smooth recovery process.

Safe Exercises and Movements

Gentle stretching, breathing exercises, and proper body mechanics are essential for recovery. Handouts with images guide patients in performing safe movements that promote healing without straining the sternum.

4.1 Gentle Stretching and Mobility Exercises

Gentle stretching and mobility exercises help maintain flexibility without straining the sternum. Shoulder rolls, arm stretches, and seated exercises are recommended. These movements promote circulation and muscle tone, aiding recovery while adhering to sternal precautions. Handouts with images guide patients in performing these exercises safely and effectively, ensuring proper technique to avoid discomfort or injury.

4.2 Breathing Exercises to Aid Recovery

Breathing exercises, such as diaphragmatic and deep breathing, are essential for recovery. They improve oxygen flow, reduce discomfort, and minimize strain on the sternum. Patients should practice these exercises gently, avoiding overexertion. Handouts with visual guides help patients perform these techniques correctly, promoting healing and reducing the risk of sternal complications during the recovery period.

4.3 Proper Body Mechanics for Daily Activities

Proper body mechanics involve maintaining posture, bending at the knees, and avoiding twisting. Patients should use assistive devices and lift objects close to their body. Visual aids in handouts demonstrate correct techniques, ensuring safe movements and reducing sternal strain during daily tasks, promoting a smooth and effective recovery process after surgery.

Managing Daily Activities with Precautions

Bathing and dressing safely involve using assistive devices, avoiding heavy lifting, and choosing loose, front-opening clothing. Patients should avoid soaking in water and use a washcloth with a handle for reaching, ensuring minimal strain on the sternum during recovery.

5.1 Bathing and Dressing Safely

Use assistive devices like a washcloth with a handle or long-handled brush to avoid stretching. Wear loose, front-opening shirts to minimize movement. Avoid soaking in water; pat dry gently instead of rubbing. Sit on a shower chair or bench for stability. Do not lift or twist while bathing or dressing to protect the sternum.

5.2 Eating and Drinking Without Straining

Eat small, frequent meals to reduce strain. Use a straw for drinks to minimize movement. Avoid heavy trays or plates. Keep meals within easy reach. Stay upright during and after eating. Choose soft foods for easier chewing. Take small sips and bites to manage without discomfort. This helps protect the sternum during recovery.

5.3 Sleeping Positions to Avoid Discomfort

Sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees to reduce strain. Avoid lying on your stomach or crossing arms over your chest. Use a supportive pillow under your neck to keep your spine aligned. Consider using a wedge pillow to elevate your upper body slightly. This reduces pressure on the sternum and promotes healing.

The Role of a Sternal Precautions Handout

A sternal precautions handout provides clear guidelines for patients to follow after surgery, including activity restrictions and care tips. It helps prevent sternal complications and promotes healing by outlining safe movements and prohibited actions, ensuring patients understand their recovery process effectively.

6.1 What to Include in the Handout

The handout should include activity restrictions, safe exercises, wound care instructions, and visual aids. It should outline prohibited movements, such as heavy lifting or bending, and provide diagrams of proper postures. Including emergency contact information and a Q&A section ensures patients have clear guidance and resources for their recovery process.

6.2 Using Visual Aids for Clarity

Visual aids like images and diagrams enhance understanding by illustrating safe and unsafe movements. Pictures of proper postures, lifting techniques, and wound care procedures help patients grasp instructions quickly. Including before-and-after examples of activities to avoid ensures clarity and reduces confusion, making the handout more effective for recovery guidance.

6.3 Patient Education and Compliance

Patient education is crucial for ensuring adherence to sternal precautions. Providing clear, concise instructions and demonstrations helps patients understand their role in recovery. Emphasizing the importance of following guidelines fosters compliance, reducing the risk of complications. Engaging patients through discussions and addressing their concerns promotes active participation in their healing process.

Visual Aids in the Handout

Visual aids like images and diagrams help patients understand safe movements, restricted activities, and proper wound care. These tools enhance comprehension and adherence to sternal precautions effectively.

7.1 Images of Safe Movements and Postures

Images in the handout illustrate safe movements and postures, such as proper sitting, standing, and exercises. These visuals demonstrate how to avoid straining the sternum while performing daily activities. Clear examples include bending at the knees instead of the waist and using assistive devices for balance. The images make it easier for patients to understand and follow the guidelines effectively.

• Safe lifting techniques to avoid putting pressure on the sternum.
• Proper posture during activities like eating or watching TV.
• Gentle exercises to promote healing without risking injury.

7.2 Illustrations of Restricted Activities

Illustrations in the handout depict activities to avoid, such as heavy lifting, bending, or twisting. These visuals clearly show movements that could strain the sternum, helping patients understand what to avoid during recovery. Common restricted activities include lifting objects over 10 lbs, pushing to stand, and raising arms overhead.

• Lifting heavy objects that exceed recommended weight limits.
• Bending or twisting at the waist, which can strain the sternum.
• Pushing or pulling objects or surfaces with force.

7.3 Diagrams for Proper Wound Care

Diagrams in the handout illustrate proper wound care techniques, such as cleaning the surgical site and monitoring for infection. They show how to inspect for redness, swelling, or drainage. Visuals also guide patients on proper dressing changes and the use of sterile supplies to promote healing and prevent complications.

• Cleaning the site with recommended antiseptic solutions.
• Monitoring for signs of infection or improper healing.
• Applying dressings correctly to protect the wound.

Ensuring Patient Compliance

Compliance is achieved through clear instructions, regular follow-ups, and patient engagement. Visual aids and demonstrations help patients understand and adhere to sternal precautions effectively.