Pre-Surgery Day To Do’s
Preparing for surgery and post-operation recovery time can feel overwhelming. But doing a few things ahead of time can quickly put your mind at ease! Follow these steps to ensure surgery day and recovery will be as smooth as possible!
Have comfortable clothes washed and ready.
Have drinks, snacks, and easy-to-eat food bought and set aside to quickly access once you’re home.
Find some binge-watchable shows, new books, or adult coloring pages to help curb your boredom during recovery.
Make sure your family and caregivers have meals and snacks planned and ready ahead of time.
Purchase paper products (plates, bowls, utensils) to help with messy dishes and lighten the housework load.
Look at the calendar and see what is coming up and what help you anticipate needing. Don’t be afraid to divvy out help!
Pack a surgery day bag. Include items like insurance card & co-pay, easy-to-put-on clothing, post-surgery crackers, and juice (for the drive home if outpatient surgery), and toiletries and medications (if staying at the hospital).
Coordinate a caregiver and driver to get you to and from the hospital.
Communicate with your family and caregivers what your recovery is expected to be and what will be the most helpful to you (both physically and emotionally!)
On the days leading up to the surgery, allow time to clear your mind and care for yourself. Go on a date, take a walk, or listen to your favorite music.
Remember that if you forget anything or are feeling nervous - the hospital staff and your caregivers will be right there with you every step of the way!
