Modified Sternal Precautions Versus Conventional Sternal Precautions in Physical Function After Sternotomy

"Use pain and discomfort to guide the safe use of the arms Avoid pushing or pulling with one arm Use both arms close to the body during lifting Use of arms is possible, but keep them close to the body Avoid stretching one or both arms backwards at the same time Use a cushion or perform sternal preservation technique (crossing the arms in a 'self-hugging 'posture) when coughing.~When transferring, roll onto the side, ease the legs over the edge of the bed and carefully use the arms to sit up from a lying position"

Avoid pushing or pulling through the arms Avoid one-arm (unilateral) activity Limit the elevation of the arms to 90 degrees Avoid lifting objects heavier than 2 kg Use a cushion or perform sternal preservation technique (crossing the arms in a 'self-hugging' posture) when coughing Limit the use of the arms when transferring from sitting to standing and getting out of bed Avoid placing the arms behind the back