Recovering from surgery without friends or family can be a difficult process. Most surgeries will keep you immobile for long periods of time and you may require some assistance in performing daily tasks. However, there are steps you can take and services you can utilize to ease your recovery.
Surgery Recovery: What to Do Before The Procedure
If your home is not in order, after surgery care can be easier. Small steps such as making sure items are within reach can greatly increase your chances of recovery at home. Here are some things you can do before your surgery:
- Shop! Shop! Shop!
1) Think about the amount of days you’ll be bedridden and then shop for double that.
2) Nonperishable food items are easy to digest and will help after surgery.
- Move items for easy access
1) Make a list of items you use throughout the day such as your toothbrush, TV remote, water glass, etc.
2) Place all items within reach, such as on a nightstand, to prevent any need to dig through cabinets and drawers.
- Make room for in-home physical therapy if needed
1) Consult your doctor to see if physical therapy will be part of your after surgery home care.
2) Move obstacles such as furniture, rugs, and other tripping hazards for ease of movement.
- Clean
1) Make sure surfaces are free of dust and germs to ensure healthy recovery after surgery.
2) Move items and cords to ensure safe walking paths.
- Consult your doctor to determine additional needs
1) Let your doctor know if you have no one to help after surgery and they should be able to help you come up with ways to assist you.
2) Make a list of questions and concerns. Jot down your answers so you don’t forget.
Help at Home After Surgery: Items You May Need
During recovery, you will want to keep some basic necessities on hand. Here are some items you should consider having nearby:
- Hand sanitizer
1) Prevents infection
2) Be sure to always sanitize your hands before touching your incision
- Comfortable clothes
1) Make sure your clothes aren’t tight against your incision
2) Keeps you comfortable while spending the majority of your time in bed
- Easy meals
1) Frozen foods, cereal, salad kits, and nonperishable food items can make meal prep easy
2) Preparing meals before your surgery can also make it easier while recovering at home after surgery
3) Fill your diet with plenty of fiber
- Entertainment
1) Books
2) Magazines
3) Movies
4) Puzzles
5) Video games
- Filled prescriptions
1) Have prescriptions ready at home for after your surgery
2) Ensures you can head to your bed immediately after surgery
- Over-the-counter medicines
1) Fiber additives
2) Acetaminophen
3) Ibuprofen
- Water
1) Flushes anesthesia and other medications out of your system
2) Improves energy levels
3) Makes pain easier to manage
