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How to follow sternal precautions
after heart surgery
Toronto Rehab
After heart surgery you need to follow “sternal precautions.” These are rules that
help to protect your chest while it is healing.
No lifting
Patient Education
Improving health through education
anything over 5 kilograms (10 pounds)
No pushing (the weight of a bag of potatoes)
No pulling
How do I get up from a bed or chair?
To move from lying down to sitting, roll over and use elbows to push up.
To get out of bed or a chair, hold onto a pillow
To stand, use leg muscles to push up. Only use your arms for balance.
What other rules should I follow?
• Keep things close by to avoid reaching
• Avoid reaching up or twisting
• For grooming, bend your elbows and lower your head
How can my caregiver help?
• Do not grab under the armpits when helping you to stand or move in bed.
• Use a safety belt around your waist, if you need it to help you get up.
Please visit the UHN Patient Education website for more health information: www.uhnpatienteducation.ca
© 2012 University Health Network. All rights reserved.
This information is to be used for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice,
diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. A single copy of these
materials may be reprinted for non-commercial personal use only.
Author: Inpatient Geriatric Rehab program
Created: 03/2012
Form: D-5889
C034-D