Activity guidelines after surgery

For 4 weeks, do not lift items greater than 2.3 kilograms (5 pounds) per arm, or 4.6 kg (10 lbs) total, for example: laundry baskets, groceries, telephone books, luggage, pets, children or infants. Do not push or pull heavy objects such as doors, furniture or appliances, or try to open stuck windows or jar lids.

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation does not allow a person to drive after a heart attack or heart procedure for a minimum of 4 weeks. Fitness to drive depends on many factors, such as the amount of heart damage, whether or not you have had treatment, and other conditions. Your cardiologist or nurse practitioner will determine when you can drive safely again.

Your insurance may change as a result of your heart surgery. Contact your insurance provider to be sure you are covered.

Do not do strenuous house or yard work such as sweeping, mopping, or scrubbing for the first 6 weeks. Avoid snow shoveling and consider investing in a snow blower or snow removal service.

Avoid extreme temperatures in the bath or shower. Lukewarm water is best and use mild unscented soap. Avoid baths until your incision is healed. Check with your cardiologist before using a hot tub or sauna.

Stairs are safe to use, but not as exercise. Limit stair use to once or twice a day for the first 1 to 2 weeks. Take one step at a time, pausing every 3 to 4 steps to take deep breaths. Hold onto the handrail.

Check with your TAVI team and travel insurance provider when considering travel plans. If travelling in a car for longer durations, take rests each hour and get out of the car to do a short walk.

It is safe to return to sexual activity when you are able to climb two flights of stairs continuously without becoming short of breath. Upon returning to sexual activity, listen to your body, take your time, and stop and rest if you feel pain or pressure in your chest.

Returning to work depends on the demands of your job and on your recovery. Discuss your return to work with your cardiologist.