The nurse is providing discharge teaching to a patient who underwent a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG). Which of the following should the nurse explain is common in the weeks following surgery, but will likely resolve without treatment?
Explanation
• Depression is very common after undergoing a CABG. It usually resolves within several weeks after recovery and generally does not require medical intervention.
• Incorrect: Dizziness may signal a decrease in cardiac output. This is an abnormal finding and requires immediate attention.
• Incorrect: Nausea is not an expected side effect except in weeks following surgery.
• Incorrect: Edema after a CABG may indicate heart failure and should not be ignored.