5 Key Tips for a Smooth Recovery After Surgery | Alliance Home Care VNA

5 Key Tips for a Smooth Recovery After Surgery

From emotional trauma to lack of physical ability, healing from surgery can be an extremely difficult situation. However, there are steps you can take to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery after your operation. Although you should set aside the recommended amount of time to heal post-surgery, experts have provided several ways to help you reduce complications in your recovery.

That’s why Alliance Home Care VNA has provided some key tips for post-surgery care that you can follow.

1. Arrange some help, starting with a ride home.

It’s important to make sure you arrange a ride home after your surgery as you will not be able to drive yourself, especially after receiving anesthesia.

You could also benefit from assistance in your daily duties such as cleaning, cooking, and pet care. If you are a parent, getting help with childcare is also important. Reach out to a friend or loved one or ask a social worker at your hospital for support services.

2. Rest—allow your body to heal.

Normally, post-surgery could take weeks, and sometimes even months if the procedure was extensive. It can be difficult to avoid all the things you’re used to doing on a day-to-day basis, but it’s important to give your body time to heal and not jump back into your daily activities too quickly.

Making sure you wash your hands before coming into contact with your incision to clean or change bandages is also crucial to prevent further injuries or infection.

3. Get in some steps.

Walking is very important in avoiding complications post-surgery as it can improve blood flow and bowel movements.

Try to get in a short walk every day, but be sure to avoid high-impact, strenuous activities such as running or fitness classes until a professional gives you the all clear. Avoid swimming until your wound has fully healed.

4. Maintain good nutrition.

Maintaining a nutritious diet while healing from surgery is key. Eat regularly throughout the day and focus on consuming grains, lean proteins, as well as fruits and vegetables.

Avoid drinking alcohol as mixing alcohol and medication can be very dangerous, and sometimes even life-threatening. If you’re taking prescription medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on how you can gradually come off them to reduce the risk of becoming reliant.

5. If you have any concerns, call your doctor.

Your doctor is the most reliable resource for addressing any concerns post-operation.

Call your doctor if you have any complications during your healing process, such as an increase in pain, swelling, redness, problems with your incisions, or a fever of 101 degrees or greater.

Contact us for post-surgery care today!

You can always get in touch with our staff at Alliance Home Care VNA for information on post-surgery nursing assistance. We offer a variety of services to make sure you’re getting the support you need during your healing period.