Introduction
No matter how minor or major, the prospect of surgery is frightening for the patient and his loved ones. There are several questions you may have and points to consider, both about the surgery before and after. Your doctor will have many answers to these questions, but you still want a quick and simple guide on how to care for your loved one during this stressful and scary time. Taking care of your love one’s surgery before and after the procedure doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Before the Surgery
At least one month before the surgery, arrange your love one’s ride to and from the hospital. This is also the time to consider if your loved one will require professional help at home after the surgery, or if you are capable of taking care of his needs. If you require a nurse or health care professional, make the arrangements at least 30 days before the surgery. Take this time to help your loved one stop smoking, if applicable. Smoking before and after the surgery can be detrimental to the healing process. Speak to your loved one’s doctor a week before the surgery about any changes in medication. Some medications, such as blood thinners, are generally stopped a week to 10 days before the surgery. You or your loved one also generally donates blood, if applicable, approximately 3 days before the surgery. The day before the procedure, pay attention that your loved one stops eating or drinking according to the doctor’s instructions and check-in with plenty of time for any pre-surgery blood work. Take this time to ask any questions or voice your concerns about the procedure.
After the Surgery
Follow the physician’s instructions carefully after surgery. Depending upon the procedure, this could mean your loved one is restricted from physical activity for one day or several weeks. Pay attention that the loved one rests and is given any medications for pain. Follow the post-surgery dietary restrictions as well. Depending on the surgery, this translates into avoid certain foods and beverages for one day or several weeks. Provide your loved one with everything he may require to remain comfortable after the surgery. This could mean consulting a professional nurse or healthcare worker to help with recovery. Care for the wounds according to the doctor’s instructions. Change the dressing on time and pay attention that the wound is kept clean and dry. Contact the patient’s physician immediately if there is swelling, excessive heat, excessive bleeding, oozing or discharge around the wound site. These, along with nausea, vomiting and a high fever, are signs that the wound is infected.
Tips and comments
Surgery, no matter how minor or major, is an intimidating time in any person’s life. If your loved one is feeling anxious or depressed before or after the surgery, don’t hesitate to contact a professional to deal with these feelings. If an emergency occurs after the surgery, keep a level head and remember that helping your loved one through the traumatic experience is the most important thing. Don’t forget to take care of yourself as well. You cannot help your loved one recover if you’re not in optimum health yourself.
