Sternal Precautions Educational Notes
Chapter 1: The Red Tube
- Following open heart surgery, sternal precautions are crucial for healing the sternum.
- The core concept involves limiting movement within a defined "tube" around the body, especially during weight-bearing activities.
- Immediately post-surgery, patients should visualize this tube to guide their movements.
- Arms should remain inside this imaginary tube during activities that involve bearing weight.
- During non-weight-bearing activities, more freedom of movement is permitted, but only if pain-free.
- Pain and discomfort serve as indicators of safe movement limits.
- Examples of non-weight-bearing self-care activities include:
- Red Tube vs. Green Tube:
- The "red tube" represents movements that should be avoided.
- The "green tube" demonstrates safe movements within the recommended limits.
- When lifting heavy loads, keep both arms close to the body and inside the tube.
- Bed Mobility:
- Roll onto one side.
- Ease legs over the edge of the bed.
- Use arms carefully to sit up from a sideline position.
- Functional Transfers:
- Using both arms is acceptable, but maintain proximity to the body.
- Avoid reaching out for chair arms.
- Wheelchair Use:
- When propelling a wheelchair, avoid reaching hands behind the body.
- Keep hands next to hips and within the tube.
- Pushing and Pulling:
- Avoid these actions with an outstretched arm.
- Keep arms close to the body within the tube.
- The overarching principle is to keep arms close to the body and within the tube to protect the healing sternum.
Chapter 2: Implement These Precautions
- Sarasota Memorial Rehabilitation Program provides support to understand and implement sternal precautions.
- Therapy and nursing staff are dedicated to helping patients understand and adhere to these precautions.