After Surgery

Caring for Yourself at Home

Follow all of the instructions your recovery roo nurse gave you and/or the responsible adult with you..

General Information

• Follow your doctor’s advice.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Follow your doctor’s advice about what to eat.
• Get some rest.
• If confined to bed, breathe deeply and change your position every two hours.
• If you cannot urinate after surgery, call your doctor.
• DO NOT drive if taking pain medication.

Nausea

• If your stomach is upset, rest with your head raised on pillows, apply a cool, damp cloth to your face or neck, and avoid quick movements.
• Call your doctor if your nausea is not better or if you cannot keep food or liquid down.

If You Have a Bandaged Hand or Foot

• Follow your doctor’s instructions to keep the area iced and elevated.
• Call your doctor if your fingers or toes become cold, bluish, or numb.
• Call your doctor if your bandage is soaked with bright red blood.

Call 911 for Assistance if You Develop:

• Unexplained chest pain, uncomfortable pressure, crushing, or tightness.
• Sudden or unexplained shortness of breath.
• High pitched sound when breathing or painful breathing.
• Pain in calf, leg, or behind the knee.
• Rapid or slow heartbeat.

Outpatient Only

During the first 24 hours after your surgery, a responsible adult should stay with you. Please do not stay alone. The post-op nurse will attempt to call you the day after surgery to check on your progress.

We suggest that you eat lightly for the first 24 hours after your procedure. Be sure to follow any specific post-operative instructions your doctor or recovery nurse gives you regarding diet, rest, activities and medication. The hospital will provide you with a written summary of these instructions.

Also:

• No driving for 24 hours.
• No tasks that involve the use of appliances or machinery.
• No alcoholic beverages.
• No making critical decisions.
• Ask your doctor when you can resume your normal activities, such as work, exercise or school.