Before your surgery:
- Arrange for someone to travel home with you following your surgery and fill your prescriptions if needed.
- Arrange for someone to stay with you the first night after surgery.
- Clarify with your surgeon if you should continue to take any prescription medications the morning of surgery.
- If you smoke, try to quit or at least cut back before your surgery, as smoking interferes with tissue and bone healing. Ask your surgeon if nicotine replacement therapy is advisable.
- Wear loose clothing that's easy to get changed into when leaving the hospital or surgical centre. Wear flats rather than heels, as you may be dizzy or a little unsteady walking after your surgery.
- Stock up on juices, ginger ale, yogurt, soup, crackers and easy-to-prepare meals.
- Get out any items you may need in advance of your surgery and put them within easy reach so you can use them without lifting or straining (blender, hot water bottle, extra blankets).
- Consider having your keys duplicated so you can give one to trusted friends and family if they plan to visit you within the first few days after surgery. This way they can come in without disturbing you if you're napping.
- Check with your surgeon to see if you should remove nail polish prior to surgery.
After your surgery:
- Write down the times to take your medications to avoid confusion.
- Increase your fiber intake and water consumption to prevent constipation due to pain medications.
- Watch for signs and symptoms of infection. These include discharge, fever, and reddening or heat near the incision.
- Arrange your bedside so you have a drink, tissues, remote controls, a phone and painkillers by the bed. Make sure you can turn off the phone ringer easily so you can sleep undisturbed.
If you will be recovering away from home:
- Arrange for someone to collect your mail and water your plants.
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