Planning for Care After Surgery
The best place for you to recover from surgery is in your own home . Plan to have someone help you until you are safe with your daily routine .
There are times when other arrangements need to be made . If you live alone , your caregiver is unable to care for you , or you are having difficulty meeting physical therapy goals , your multidisciplinary health care team may make other recommendations . It may be necessary for you to have home health care or be discharged to a skilled nursing or rehabilitation facility . The case manager will work with you in the selection of a facility . They will also work with your insurance company to determine eligibility .
Outpatient physical therapy is very beneficial to your recovery as it requires you to complete your daily hygiene , dress , get in and out of the car , and walk to the appointment . If you are homebound and unable to do outpatient therapy , your physician may order home health services .
Driving
� Arrange to have someone drive you home or to the skilled nursing facility upon discharge from the hospital . Transportation costs will be your responsibility .
� A higher vehicle is easier to get into than one that is low to the ground .
� Do not drive after surgery until you are given permission from your surgeon . This may be several weeks . Do not drive while you are taking narcotic medications .
� You will also need someone to drive you to and from your follow-up appointments .
Home Preparations
For your safety , you or your family should :
� Make certain you have secure handrails along stairways and in the bathroom . Consider installing grab bars .
� Place a non-skid bath mat in your tub .
� Make sure that you have good lighting and that the light switch is within easy reach .
� Remove anything in your walking path that may cause you to trip , such as throw rugs , cords , and furniture .
� Have a telephone within easy reach .
� Use a cushion to raise the seat of a low chair with arms .
� Run errands and grocery shop before surgery .
� Stock up on food that is easy to prepare , and store it at waist to shoulder level to avoid bending and reaching .
� Make sure your pets can be out of your way when you return home .
Durable Medical Equipment ( DME )
� Check with your surgeon about special equipment you may need after surgery , such as a walker , shower chair , elevated toilet seat , crutches , or a cane .
� Check with your insurance plan to find out which items will be covered . Some equipment may need your doctor ’ s authorization , and not all equipment is covered by insurance .
� If you already have a walker or brace , plan to bring this to the hospital with you .
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