For the Caregiver

The Caregiver’s Role after TAVR

As a caregiver, whether you are a family member, friend or home health care staff, you play an important role during the recovery period to help the person you are caring for return to their daily routine following their TAVR procedure. Recovery is different for each person. It is hard to say how much help and for how long they may need it.  You are likely to provide physical and emotional support in helping them to recover and return to a daily routine.  Talk openly with them about their needs during this time. Some things you may help with include: managing medications, preparing meals, housework, running errands, driving, and attending follow-up visits.

It can be helpful to attend follow-up visits along with the person you are caring for.  Use the following list to make the most of these visits.

  • Bring a list of any questions you or the person you are caring for may have about follow-up care.
  • Tell the heart team/health care provider how the person is doing at home.
  • Bring a notebook so you can write down important information, such as tests done during the visit, test results, and any new medications or instructions.
  • Make sure the person you are caring for understands what they are being told by the health care professionals.
  • Keep a list of all follow-up appointments including new ones, who they were with, and make any pertinent notes.

Caregiver Support

Being a caregiver is not easy. Just as you are supporting the person you are caring for, you may also need some encouragement along the way. You have taken on a lot of responsibility and connecting with other caregivers in similar situations can be a big help. Remember, you are not alone; take advantage of the following resources available to you.

Learn More About Heart Care At Northridge Hospital Medical Center

For more information about the TAVR procedure and our Cardiovascular Center, please call Program Manager Carlyn Fostakowski, NP, at 818.855.8500 ext. 5691.  

This procedure is currently performed at Northridge Hospital by Dr. Jahandar Saleh, Dr. Aamer Jamali, and Dr. Vasim Lala.