Drainage Tube (NG — Nasogastric, or OG — Oral Gastric)
A tube is placed through your nose or mouth into your stomach to drain stomach
acids. This helps prevent nausea and vomiting.
Once you are completely awake and able to follow instructions, the ET and
drainage tubes can be removed. You will be placed on oxygen and will be able to
have ice chips and sips of water.
Chest Tubes
During surgery you will have two to three tubes placed into your chest cavity.
The chest tubes drain excess fluid and blood that may pool there. Chest tubes are
usually in place for a few days.
Pulse Oximeter
The pulse oximeter measures the amount of oxygen in your bloodstream. The
probe is placed on one of your fingers. It is normal to see a red light on the
probe.
Heart Monitor
Small adhesive pads called electrodes are placed onto your chest. These allow the
nurses to monitor your heart rate, rhythm, and blood pressure.
Temporary Pacemaker
Temporary pacemaker wires may be attached to your heart during surgery. The
wires can be connected to a temporary pacemaker generator if needed. This helps
keep your heart rate normal while you are recovering and will be removed within
a few days.
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