Post Operative Care at Home
The key to a successful convalescence at home after surgery is to plan for the days and weeks ahead. Think about the care and support you will need as well as any special equipment that will be required.
Planning Ahead
Depending on the surgery you have had, you may need to prepare your home for your return. Organise any special equipment such as a hospital bed, wheelchair or walking frame. To help you get around easily, ensure that furniture and obstacles that may be in the way are moved. You may also want to consider putting items that you will need on a daily basis such as clothes and toiletries within easy reach.
You should also think about your ability to do daily tasks such as bathing, dressing and cooking. Will you need help with these tasks and if so, who can help? You may be eligible for funded assistance, chat to the hospital staff or your council to help you organise this. If you are not eligible, can family or friends help? A private home help or care company may also be an option.
When you get home
What you do when you get home from hospital can make a big difference to your recovery. Here are a few tips to help you return to normal life as quickly as possible.
Follow the Doctors orders
- You will usually receive a set of instructions for post-operative care. Read these carefully and if you have any questions ask.
- Take medications as prescribed and redress wounds as instructed.
- If something doesn’t look or feel right, speak to the Doctor asap
Attend Post-op appointments
- When you leave the hospital you will be advised of any further appointments or treatment that is needed. Ensure you book these in and attend them even if your recovery is going well.
Post Operative Exercises
- Depending on your operation you may be given post operative exercises. While you may not feel like doing them, it is important to try and stick to any exercise plan you’re given. If you are struggling to do these, speak to your Doctor.
Accept help & don’t rush
- If you need help with your recovery don’t be afraid to ask. Family & friends will often be looking for ways to support you, so take them up on their offers. As mentioned above, outside help may also be available, so chat to your Doctor or hospital about the options.
- I’m sure you’ll be keen to get back to normal life but don’t rush your recovery as this can have the opposite effect and actually prolong it.
Extra Help
If you need extra help with your recovery at home, then New Age Care offer a variety of Post-Operative care options. Our short term and flexible options include hourly visits, overnight care and full time live-in care. We can help with a variety of tasks including:
- Medication, bandaging and dressing
- Transportation to appointments
- Assistance with mobility
- Bathing and dressing
- Meal preparation
To find out more give us a call on 01789 731161