Planning a surgery? Here are some steps you don't want to miss.
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, 48 million inpatient surgeries are performed each year. That's over 130,000 surgeries every day! This means that the odds are that about 1 in 7 people reading this are either planning a surgery, have recently had a surgery or (unbeknownst to them) will be having one in the near future.
If you are planning a surgery, we've compiled a list of items that you should be aware of. And if you're not, the odds are that this information will still be beneficial to you.
Pre-surgery steps
Prepare your body for surgery
One of the best steps you can take is to physically prepare your body for surgery. This includes quitting smoking if you are a smoker. You should also make sure you are eating a balanced diet and exercising if you are able to. If you aren't currently exercising, talk with your doctor about an exercise routine that you should follow.
Prepare your mind for surgery
Surgery can be a scary thing. There is the fear of the unknown as well as the fear of what comes after. Yes, there is uncertainty as sometimes complications arise. Talk with your doctor about the risks and the fears you have about them. And, yes, there will be some pain after. It is important to mentally prepare yourself and have a support system set up for when that time comes.
Ask your doctor questions
Your doctors want you to ask questions. Often when we are presented with the initial concept of a surgery, there is a lot of information to be processed at the time. Jot down any questions you have before your surgery in a notebook and bring them up with your doctor. Helping you understand the surgery will help provide the best outcome possible.
Post-surgery steps
Set up a support system
Having moral and physical support can make all of the difference in the world. Discuss with friends and family members the aspects of the surgery and what level of support you may need. This may include things such as having someone to drive you home after, stay with you during or after the surgery, or picking up medications after the surgery.
Prepare your home
Surgery can change your life around for a period of time. Take steps to ensure that your home makes those changes before you do. Do simple things such as stock your pantry, remove fall risks (more on that here), and make sure you have any in-home medical equipment your doctor suggests.
Arrange for home health
Sometimes your doctor can arrange for a home health agency to assist you with recovery in your own home after you are discharged. Home health is primarily for Medicare recipients over the age of 65, but can be ordered in other cases too. Home health agencies can provided services such as skilled nursing, in-home therapy, IV therapy, and personal care.
If you are planning a surgery and think you may need home health to aid in your recovery, talk to your doctor about it and contact us or call us at 877-477-2014. Sunshine Home Care services most of the Western Oklahoma area and would be happy to provide a consultation.
In conclusion
You, your doctor, your family, and your friends all want your surgery to go as well as possible. The best thing that you can do is plan for it and follow the doctors orders. We hope this helps!
Sunshine Home Care provides home health in Altus, OK and most of Western Oklahoma. For more information on our agency, visit here or contact us today.
