Sometimes I marvel at the simplest things in nursing. Take, for instance, the basic heart pillow. This pillow may be shaped like a heart, Teddy bear, or simple cushion. But, its purpose is profound. Patients recovering from heart surgery are instructed – and repeatedly reminded - to hug their pillow (in order to “splint” their incision) during such activities as coughing, sneezing, turning, or laughing. This splinting action serves to protect surgical wounds from potentially dangerous pressure caused by exertion.

Many heart pillows come with attached markers, permitting patients to have their “hearts” signed for posterity. Some patients take a pragmatic view of their heart pillow, using them as simple tools along the road to recovery. But, many patients become clearly attached to their pillows. It is easy to see why a heart pillow might take on special significance to a recovering patient. Patients may view the pillow as a symbol of their personal conquest over adversity, or as a sign of their renewed health. For others, the pillows signify the heartfelt concern expressed by family and staff during their post-operative recovery period.

In the rush and confusion of intensive care units, patients can easily become confused and disoriented. Among these confused and frightened patients, the heart pillow provides a source of familiar and constant comfort in an unpredictable environment.

Whether they serve to protect surgical wounds or enhance a patient’s emotional experience, it is obvious that many patients benefit from the simple presence of these soft objects. Studies have demonstrated the therapeutic benefit of comfort articles to patients with dementia. Comfort items can provide a valuable form of solace to patients, lowering anxiety, improving mood, and enhancing trust and cooperation with their plan of care.

Do your patients get attached to certain inanimate objects, such as stuffed toys or gifts from loved ones? What type of heart pillow does you facility use?