When Should I Call the Doctor?
You will be given discharge instructions when you leave the hospital. Keep them
in a place where you can easily refer to them as needed.
Call your doctor’s office if you have questions or feel concerned about how you
are feeling.
Call 911 immediately if you have chest pain different from incisional pain that
is squeezing or radiating.
Call your doctor right away if you have:
• Pulse rate greater than 120 or less than 55
• Weight gain of 3 pounds or more in one day
• Temperature above 101°F (38.3°C)
• Increased redness, warmth, swelling, pain, bleeding, or drainage from your
incisions
• Weakness or dizziness
• Swollen feet, ankles, legs, and/or abdomen
• Frequent dry, hacking cough
• Shortness of breath not relieved with rest
Incentive Spirometer
Remember to continue to use your incentive spirometer 6 times a day, taking
5 to 10 breaths each time.
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