For many people, going through surgery causes fear and apprehension as there are always potential risks and complications. However, post-surgery care is often overlooked, even though it is as essential as the surgery itself. Planning post-op care ahead of surgery allows for a smooth transition from hospital to home and a speedy recovery. As a top home care agency in Alpharetta, we understand that home health care after surgery varies from procedure to procedure. Below, we have listed some general guidelines that you can follow.
Tips on Planning for Home Care after Surgery
Food and Diet
Nutrition plays an important role in your recovery. Be sure to consult with your doctor when planning your surgery and ask if there will be any diet restrictions. You should stock up your pantry in advance as it may be difficult for you to drive and shop for groceries during recovery time. Alternatively, you can take advantage of online grocery delivery or meal kit delivery services. At the beginning of recovery, you may be limited to clear liquids for easy digestion, then move on to a soft diet when you are ready.
Mobility
If you are about to go through surgery that may temporarily affect your ability to move around afterward, consider setting up a bedroom on the ground floor. Come up with a list of things that you will use daily during your recovery and make sure that they are easily accessible. Also, remove sliding or tripping hazards that could create a safety issue.
Private Nursing
After your discharge from the hospital, it is important that you have someone to monitor and support the medical needs of your recovery process. If home health nursing is your go-to option, be sure to reach out to Trinity Life At Home prior to the surgery and acquire all the information that you need. For your reference, the roles of an in-home private nurse are primarily designed around:
- Administering medications
- Observing the patient’s post-op care progress, documenting it, and communicating it with doctors or therapists
- Regularly checking the patient’s vitals and detecting any irregularities
- Changing dressings, bandages, and contraptions as prescribed
- Assisting with patient’s daily activities during post-op care
Activities
Depending on your type of surgery, the length of recovery can be different. Therefore, before and after your surgery, it is important that you communicate with your doctor and set your expectations accordingly. Also, do not attempt physical activities that may be too strenuous, such as lifting heavy objects or mowing the lawn.
Trinity Life at Home – Your Top Home Care Agency in Alpharetta
As a leader in private duty home care services in Alpharetta, we pride ourselves on providing our clients with top-quality post-operative care. Our skillfully trained staff are here to help ensure a smooth transition from hospital to home and support our patients throughout their recovery phase.
If you are considering post-surgery care at home, please contact us or give us a call at (678) 731-0831. You can also follow us on Facebook and learn more about our Trinity Life at Home community.