Episode 2: The First Week After Open-Heart Surgery – What to Expect & How to Support Yourself

Episode Summary: If you’re preparing for heart surgery, in your first week of recovery, or caring for someone after cardiac surgery, this episode is for you. The early days can feel confusing, emotional, and unpredictable—even when everything is technically going well.

In this episode, I walk you through:

• What to expect when transitioning from the ICU to the step-down unit
• How your hospital stay is structured and what recovery milestones to watch for
• Education on incision care, activity restrictions, blood pressure management, and warning signs
• What doctors look for before discharging you safely
• Tips for monitoring your body at home and accepting help during recovery
• Gentle nutrition guidance for week one

Whether you’re a patient or a caregiver, this episode provides reassurance, guidance, and practical strategies to navigate the first stage of healing with confidence and self-compassion.

Key Topics Covered:

• ICU to Step-Down Recovery
• Average Hospital Stay & Recovery Timeline
• Discharge Readiness Criteria
• Monitoring Your Body Safely at Home
• Gentle, Nourishing Nutrition Tips
• Emotional Awareness and Reflection Questions

Listener Takeaways:

• The first week after surgery is about safety and gradual progress, not perfection
• Short walks, gentle activity, and breathing exercises are key to regaining strength
• Emotional swings are normal
• Accepting help and prioritizing rest are essential parts of recovery
• Simple, plant-forward meals and hydration support healing

Next Episode: In Episode 3, we’ll talk about anxiety and emotional recovery after open-heart surgery, exploring the aspects many people don’t expect but deeply experience.

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