Return to work tips please

[Gail1967]

Having had a follow up with my surgeon, I have decided to return to work from next week which will be just over10 weeks after a quadruple bypass (no previous heart issues) . I’m happy that I have made such good progress when I had no idea my heart was in trouble before but of course am a little anxious about a return to work. I plan to phase gradually and not have long car journeys initially (work as area manager in finance) but any tips or experiences anyone has of a return to work would be gratefully received.

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

Hello and welcome to the forum! The phased return us a very good idea. Initially I returned on three short days rather than two long ones as you can find yourself becoming very tired towards the end of the day for a while. Once you return to longer journeys it is probably best to try and avoid very early starts and late finishes for a while. But by then you should know how you feel. Good luck!

[Fredders]

Hi Gail, I did phased return to work, like Michael I started with three short days and increased it each week as everything was going well. My employers were great and made sure I wasn’t over doing things and said if I needed longer on short hours that was fine. As well as the driving, don’t forget you need to be careful about picking things up, even pulling doors open can be difficult even several months after the op. Don’t be embarrassed to ask for help.

Good luck.

Wendy

[Hidden]

I'd suggest you're going back too early. You might be there physically but how are you bearing up mentally? Take things very easily and make sure you have a phased return over time. But good luck.