Staying in hospital - question ?

[MsUmbrella]

Just wondered if anyone could shed some light on this!

I’ve been in hospital multiple times due to heart problems. One thing I absolutely dread the most about going in is that I’m usually not allowed to do anything- not really allowed to use the toilet (have to use a commode), not allowed to shower, not even allowed to go for a walk on the ward or off the ward. Basically not allowed to do anything that involves exertion. Even when my heart is stabilised and I’m feeling better. Usually this is the case until I’m approaching being ready to be discharged then I’m allowed to do it again.

Obviously I understand it’s for my own benefit but it’s the one thing I really struggle with as even when I’m unwell I still like to go for a walk, get freshened up etc. and sitting in bed is so unbelievably boring after a while! 😂 At first I thought it was a blanket rule for people in with heart things, but I’ve seen other cardiac patients on the ward who are allowed to get up and do those things. I understand there’s probably a criteria to decide if you’re allowed or not, but does anyone know how they decide it? I understand older people who might be at risk of falling but that’s not me, I’m just 30, although I suppose with a heart problem it could cause a fall but then wouldn’t that mean other heart patients can’t do stuff too?

im not doubting the advice of the hospital because obviously they know best, and I’m very grateful for the amazing care I’ve received but just was a bit confused as I’ve never collapsed or fallen, Is it because they think I’ll fall over or take a bad turn eg in the shower or off the ward? I’ve never been told I’m on bed rest but that’s sort of what it feels like because you’re not really allowed to do anything and sometimes I’m just desperate to wash my hair (which seems to get greasy overnight in hospital, lol) and do something other than lie in bed especially when I’m feeling better

Maybe ask the doctor when they do their rounds? Or the nurses?

I did but they just said it depends on the person and I annoyingly can’t remember what else they said ! Next time I’ll ask again for clarification but was just curious and wondered if anyone here could shed any light on it ☺️

I guess it depends on your cardiac condition . Maybe you have something where if you did too much , you are at risk of becoming unwell ?

If you've never been told you're on bed rest I'd just take myself off to the loo and get a shower too, perhaps don't lock the door in case you take a funny turn. Gently mobilise around your bed as lying in it for long periods isn't a good idea.

yeah I would have done that but im usually covered in wires (IV and the heart monitors) so need to get help getting it disconnected and then reconnected again x

Sorry wrong thread

You mentioned wires and things so maybe it is the interruption to monitoring or the resources needed to reconnect all your wires etc that means you need to stay put?
Maybe just ask if you may take a shower or go for a walk? Xx

Are you an adult congenital heart patient and are you under one of the specialist units for adult congenital patients?

This does sound extremely limiting. Even friends who've been on the transplant list have been allowed to go to the loo, and another has been confined to the ward but can move around it.

Definitely ask about this. How much can you move around when you're not in hospital? Write down the reasons you are given so you remember them. Do you have someone who can advocate for you (family, friend) if you find it hard?

They’ll have a reason if it’s not a blanket all cardiac patients don’t mobilise rule they have. Just ask next time. I imagine they need to limit any further stress and demand on your heart. Cardiac covers a huge amount of variety in individual needs so comparing yourself isn’t appropriate. A lot of adult patients will be fairly straightforward post CABG/stent and be encouraged to mobilise early. Usually their heart is fit and well, they’ve just needed the ‘plumbing’ to it unblocked. But your heart sounds in less great shape. Good luck and hope you keep well.

Can someone come in and sort your hair with one of those "magic caps" it looks like a shower cap but cleans your hair no need to rinse, also bring you some wipes then you can freshen up with the least amount of exertion