How to Ask for Pain Medications After Open-Heart Surgery

Open-heart surgery is a major operation that is often risky. Experiencing pain in the operated region is quite common. Make sure you obtain all the relevant information, especially about getting relief from pain.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Ask for pain medication immediately after the operation is over and you regain consciousness.
2. Inquire from the surgeon when and how to take the medicine. Also ask how much time the effect of the painkiller will last.
3. Tell an experienced nurse to contact the surgeon if he is away and you experience excruciating pain or discomfort after the surgery.
4. Ask for medication when the pain is still mild. Do not wait until it gets worse.
5. Ask for painkillers other than what you are taking in case the side effects are too severe. The side effect can range from increased tiredness, drowsiness or nausea.
6. Ask for pain medication before going to bed to help you sleep soundly.
7. Ask for pain medication before you arrive at the hospital for suture removal.

Tips & Warnings

• Always follow your surgeon’s prescription on pain medication. Do not take it on your own and ignore the advice of friends, as this can aggravate the situation.
• Keep these medicines out of reach from children.
• You may combine heating pads, guided imagery, pillows or surgical bras with painkillers.
• Avoid skipping the dose of pain medication. Also, do not combine doses.