HELPING CLIENTS AFTER A HEART ATTACK

A heart attack happens when oxygen can’t get to one part of the heart because of a blockage.  The heart muscle gets so “starved” for oxygen that it becomes damaged or even dies. Heart cells can only handle about 20 minutes without oxygen before they begin to die.  That’s why immediate treatment is so important!  After a heart attack, you can help clients by:

• Reminding your clients to take their medications ON TIME!  These medications are doing a very important job—helping the heart and blood vessels work better.  If medications aren’t taken on schedule, they won’t work as well.
• Helping your clients choose healthy foods.  Most likely, they will be watching their fat, cholesterol, salt, and calorie intake.  Help them make the right choices by reading the nutrition fact labels on food cartons.
• Checking with your supervisor about encouraging exercise.  Overall, physical activity is good for the heart, but your clients may need a special exercise program or have specific do’s and don’ts from their doctor.
• Encouraging your clients—and their family members not to smoke!  And, remember. . . a person is never too old to quit. 
• Being patient!  Many heart attack survivors have feelings of anger and guilt.  They may be irritable and cranky about their situation and may resent that other people are healthier than they are.