Member tips for a speedy recovery

Follow-up medication reminders

• Fill all prescriptions as soon as possible.
• Take medications exactly as directed. Using a pill organizer can help.
• Do not stop or change medications without talking to the doctor.
• Report any side effects immediately.

• If prescribed nitroglycerin, they should carry it with them at all times and sit down before using it.
• Never stop anti-platelet medications (such as aspirin, Plavix, or Brilinta) without medical guidance.

• When sick, never stop insulin, check blood sugar levels every 4 hours, and sip fluids.
• If blood sugar is below 70 mg/dL, members should follow their care plan to raise it safely.

Members should take care of themselves during recovery

• Follow wound-care and dressing instructions carefully.
• Keep incision areas clean and dry.
• Report signs of infection such as redness, swelling, drainage, or fever.

• Gentle movement helps recovery. Short 10–15 minutes walks are encouraged.
• For members who smoke, use nicotine replacement to avoid smoking during recovery.

Know when to call the doctor

• Members should weigh themselves every morning after using the bathroom and before eating.
• Members should call their doctor if they gain 2–3 pounds in one day or 5 pounds in one week.
• If members wake up short of breath or need extra pillows while sleeping to breathe, call the doctor.
• A worsening cough when lying down may signal fluid buildup. Members should be sure to call their doctor.
• For members with an ischemic heart disease-related stay:
• Call 911 for chest pain that occurs at rest, lasts more than 20 minutes, or is not relieved by nitroglycerin.

• If blood sugar stays above 250 mg/dL, check for signs of infection and call the doctor.
• Members should check their feet daily and report any cuts, blisters, or redness that isn’t healing to their doctor.

• Members should monitor blood pressure at home and call their doctor if it stays above their target.
• Sudden confusion, weakness, or changes in behavior may signal infection.
• Scanning surroundings before walking and removing tripping hazards can help prevent falls at home.

Eat well and stay hydrated

• Follow dietary instructions provided at discharge.
• Drink fluids unless the doctor advises otherwise.

• Limit sodium to less than 2,000 mg per day.
• Avoid high-salt foods like canned soups, deli meats, frozen meals, and pizza.
• If on fluid restriction, count all liquids including ice and foods that melt.

• Sit fully upright while eating and remain upright for 30 minutes afterward to reduce the risk of pneumonia.