Post-Operative Success: What Surgeons Want Their Patients to Do
Following the advice and instructions given by your surgeon is crucial for a successful recovery after surgery. While surgery is often an important step towards better health, the post-operative period can be just as critical. Surgeons emphasize several key points to ensure patients achieve a full recovery and avoid complications. This article outlines what patients should do before and after surgery to support their overall healing process.
Surgical Preparations: What to Do Before the Surgery
Before undergoing surgery, there are several steps you must follow to ensure your body is prepared and to minimize the risk of complications. These steps include:
1. Pre-Operative Hygiene
The surgeon may advise you to wash with a special disinfectant soap the day before and on the morning of surgery. This can significantly reduce the risk of post-surgical infections. Unfortunately, not everyone adheres to these instructions, thereby jeopardizing their recovery process.
2. Fasting Before Surgery
Patients are generally instructed to have no food or drink after midnight the previous night, except for a small sip of water with morning medications. Failing to comply with these instructions can lead to serious complications, including aspiration pneumonia. This risk increases if the contents of the stomach are brought up while under sedation or anesthesia.
3. Smoking Cessation
Smokers are advised to stop smoking well before the surgery, even if they plan to quit permanently later. The doctor may recommend quitting 2 to 4 weeks before the surgery. Nicotine patches, gum, or other smoking cessation aids can be used. Smokers face a higher risk of complications, including pneumonia, and smoking cessation can significantly improve outcomes post-surgery.
4. Driving After Surgery
It is essential to avoid driving after surgery until your surgeon gives the green light. Driving while under the influence of opioids, even if you feel fine, is extremely dangerous and comparable to driving after consuming alcohol. Rationalizations such as feeling “okay” or “able to tolerate it” can be dangerous. It’s critical to listen to your surgeon and rely on others for transportation until it’s safe to resume driving, as your safety and the safety of others is paramount.
Post-Surgical Care: What to Do After the Procedure
After the surgery, there are several key actions to take to ensure a safe and successful recovery:
1. Movement and Activity
To reduce the risk of post-op complications such as pneumonia and blood clots, walking around the house multiple times daily is recommended. This activity doesn't have to be extensive—multiple short walks throughout the day are beneficial. Staying excessively bedridden or sedentary can worsen symptoms and delay recovery.
2. Medication Compliance
Taking medications as directed, including laxatives and stool softeners if you are taking opioids, is crucial. Skipping these medications can lead to discomfort and frustration as the body may struggle to pass stool. Ensuring proper bowel movement can prevent issues such as constipation, which can further delay your recovery.
3. Reading Discharge Instructions
Take the time to carefully read your discharge instructions and medication list upon leaving the hospital. Discharge instructions often contain important information about when and how to take your medications, and they may have been discussed with you before leaving the hospital. Ensuring you understand and follow these instructions can prevent misunderstandings and confusion that may arise in the early stages of recovery.
4. Monitoring Temperature and Incisions
Checking your temperature and the condition of your incisions daily is essential. If you experience a fever, changes in incision appearance, or worsening pain, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Ignoring these signs can lead to complications that may require rehospitalization or even sepsis, a life-threatening infection.
Conclusion
Following the instructions provided by your surgeon is vital for a successful recovery after surgery. Patients who adhere to these guidelines can dramatically improve their outcomes and minimize the risk of complications. Your surgeon’s advice is based on their expertise and experience, and your compliance with their instructions can make all the difference in your post-operative recovery. Remember, your well-being is the priority, and adhering to these post-operative guidelines can safeguard your health and well-being.