{"id":9671,"date":"2021-06-28T12:07:06","date_gmt":"2021-06-28T16:07:06","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/assistinghands.com\/34\/?p=9671"},"modified":"2021-07-19T17:46:10","modified_gmt":"2021-07-19T21:46:10","slug":"how-to-care-for-someone-after-surgery","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/assistinghands.com\/34\/florida\/palmbeach\/blog\/how-to-care-for-someone-after-surgery\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Care for Someone After Surgery"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"How<\/p>\n

Coming home after a surgery can feel like a big relief. But in fact, the work is far from over as it can take days, weeks and even months to recover. During this time, additional help around the house is often needed, such as doing the laundry, taking out the garbage, cooking, driving, and even personal care tasks like bathing, dressing and toileting. This is why it\u2019s important to have a caregiver present so the patient can recover while not having to worry about these strenuous tasks.<\/p>\n

If you are the caregiver in the family, say for your elderly parent, grandparent or spouse, you should know this can be a challenging task, but also rewarding. Caring for yourself during this time is also crucial as it will greatly impact your ability to help your loved one.<\/p>\n

Check out these steps on how to care for someone after surgery.<\/p>\n

Talk to the doctor<\/h2>\n

Keeping close ties with your doctor is one of the most crucial steps that must be taken during the recovery period. Ask lots of questions such as how often the patient needs to return for follow-up checkups, any special diet they should follow, medication schedule, physical therapy\/exercise and particular activities to avoid. The more you understand the smoother the recovery process. You\u2019ll also want to follow the rehabilitation plan closely and perhaps read it over multiple times.<\/p>\n

Check out these steps to maintain effective communication.<\/p>\n

1. Prepare a list of questions beforehand<\/strong><\/p>\n

Always prepare a list of questions before visiting the doctor and include any issues such as changes in symptoms, general health, or medications of the patient. It\u2019s also important to discuss your comfort level as a caregiver as there may be tasks that are better fit for a respite caregiver.<\/p>\n

2. Ask a nurse for help<\/strong><\/p>\n

Nurses are wonderful patient advocates, meaning they will look out for both you as the caregiver and the patient. A registered nurse can also answer questions about surgical procedures, recovery, rehabilitation, tests, and examinations.<\/p>\n

3. Ensure the appointments fit the patient’s schedule<\/strong><\/p>\n

Before scheduling the appointments, discuss the times your loved one is comfortable going to the doctor for follow-up visits. Also ensure there is enough time allocated for the reason of your visit.<\/p>\n

Even if you have a question after the doctor leaves, be sure to ask the office staff and the doctor or nurse can call you back with an answer.<\/p>\n

4. Call beforehand<\/strong><\/p>\n

Check the schedule to verify your doctor is working before making the appointment. Inform the receptionist of any special needs before arriving to the office.<\/p>\n

Preparing for the Recovery<\/h2>\n

The best way to prepare for the recovery is to know and understand what to expect.<\/p>\n

1. Fill the patient\u2019s prescriptions<\/strong><\/p>\n

These can include both pain and regular medication. Also remember to keep over-the-counter pain relievers on hand like Tylenol and\/or acetaminophen. Ask the doctor beforehand which ones are best for the patient.<\/p>\n

2. Pick up necessary equipment recommended by the doctor<\/strong><\/p>\n

This can include a cane, walker, bathtub bench, shower grab bars or special toilet seat.<\/p>\n

3. Prepare the home for recovery<\/strong><\/p>\n

Clear walkways to prevent the risk of the patient tripping, slipping, or falling. Also keep any necessary items in easy-to-reach places, such as the counter, bedside table, or kitchen table. Here are some more specific tips:<\/p>\n

4. Find out how long the patient will need care<\/strong><\/p>\n

Your doctor can provide an estimate on how long the recovery period should last, although it will really depend on your loved one\u2019s comfort level.<\/p>\n

5. Keep their wounds clean<\/strong><\/p>\n

Keep in mind non-medical home health caregivers are not able to change bandages, but a nurse can show you how to do it in many cases. Just be sure you are comfortable with the process of cleaning and re-bandaging the wound before going home.<\/p>\n

Maintain Communication<\/h2>\n

One of your most important jobs as an informal caregiver is to communicate effectively with your loved one, the family, and the doctor. Do it in ways that are both clear and assertive and you will likely receive the help and support you need. Here are some more tips for effective communication:<\/p>\n