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Wound dehiscence is when a surgical incision that has been stitched or stapled closed comes open again. This most often occurs with surgery done on the belly (abdomen).

It’s best for your baby if you don’t drink any alcohol at all when breastfeeding. But experts generally advise that it’s possible to nurse safely and still have an occasional drink, as long as you follow some guidelines.

The IABP procedure is done through a large I.V. placed in your arm.

Stress and anxiety can make breathing harder. When it's hard to breathe, it's natural to get anxious and start to panic. This makes you even more short of breath. This sequence is known as the dyspnea cycle--common among people with COPD. The good news is, you have the power to break the cycle.

Clean your trach tube and the skin around it at least once a day. Your health care provider may advise you to clean it more frequently. Here are reasons to keep your tube clean and instructions to help you do so effectively.

A drainage tube removes fluid from around an incision. This helps prevent infection and promotes healing. Follow these instructions.

Often it’s hard to know which medical treatment choices you might face. Would you rather let someone you trust decide for you? A durable power of attorney for health care lets you name an agent to carry out your wishes. This happens only if you can’t express your wishes yourself.

A durable power of attorney for health care is only as good as the person you name to be your agent. If this person knows your treatment wishes and is willing to carry them out, you’ll probably be well-represented. Be sure to tell your agent what’s important to you.

If you understand how specific treatments may affect your quality of life, you can decide which ones you’d choose or refuse. You may want to talk to your doctor about the possible benefits and risks of treatments.