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Post-op instructions vary depending on your condition. The outcome of your surgery largely depends on what you do and don’t do afterward: Dos Do Follow Your Orthopedic Doctor’s Instructions The time after surgery is critical to your recovery. What to Do Post-Op After Orthopedic Surgery Don’t wear any jewelry, including wedding rings – leave them at home. You will be given a bag for your clothes during the surgery, but it’s best not to bring valuables. Depending on the medications you’re taking, your orthopedic doctor may advise you to stop taking one or more of them during the week or two before the surgery, especially blood thinners. Unless instructed otherwise, stop taking medications before the surgery. This is because the anesthesia will relax everything in your body, and you don’t want food going upward in your esophagus during the procedure. Don’ts Don’t Eat or Drink Before Surgeryĭo not eat or drink anything before your surgery – your orthopedic surgeon will probably advise that you stop eating and drinking at midnight before the operation. It may be best to wear a button-down shirt so you don’t have to put it over your head and move your shoulders around when getting dressed again. Talk to your orthopedic surgeon about what limitations you’ll have after the surgery. Comfortable clothes that are easy to take off and put on.Hearing aids, eyeglasses, or other items, especially to help you communicate with your doctor after the surgery.Do Bring Necessitiesīring the following items on the day of surgery: Outpatient surgery may only warrant help during the first day, but more extensive surgery may require a helper to be on hand for the first several days or more, as you may not be able to perform certain simple movements at first.Īsk your orthopedic doctor about how much help you will need after your surgery. The effects of the anesthesia will take some time to wear off.Īsk a friend or family member to help you out with normal tasks during the initial period of your recovery. Do Arrange for HelpĮven for outpatient surgery, you will likely require someone else to drive you home.
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It’s important to understand the procedure and the recovery plan so there are no surprises, such as how much time you will need to take off from work. Write down your questions and concerns about your health and the surgery for your orthopedic doctor to answer beforehand. Preoperative planning can play a critical role in the successful outcome of your surgery: Dos Do Ask Questions How to Prepare for Orthopedic Surgery Pre-Op Let’s talk about some helpful tips in preparing for orthopedic surgery, and where you can go in Miami Lakes and Plantation for outstanding orthopedic care. But this is only partly true – patients themselves can and should play a part in ensuring that their surgery and recovery go smoothly. When getting ready for surgery, patients often believe that their fates are in the hands of the surgeons, nurses, and hospital staff.
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