Below are instructions for post-operative home care following major surgery, such as for a hysterectomy or other major abdominal surgery.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS
- Make an appointment for a 2 week post-op check-up (unless instructed otherwise).
- Showers or tub baths are okay.
- Get some exercise every day in increasing amounts. Walking is the best exercise after surgery. No sit-ups or strenuous exercise. Stairs are fine after surgery; just take them slowly.
- Remember that narcotic pain pills can be constipating. Use them only as needed and use Tylenol (acetaminophen) as soon as possible.
- NO intercourse until authorized by doctor.
- No driving for at least 2 weeks.
- Call the office if your temperature is greater than 100.4 degrees orally.
- Some clear pink or red drainage from your incision is okay. If the incision is getting red and firm and tender or drains pus, please call the office.
- A multivitamin high in vitamin C may be a help to recovery. Eat a good diet with fresh fruits, vegetables, low in fat, and plenty of fluids. Remember to drink 8 glasses of water (or liquids) per day.
- Constipation after surgery hurts! Use a stool softener (Colace or Surfak) and fiber therapy (Metamucil or Citrucel) liberally, Milk of Magnesia (or other mild laxative) if necessary.
PLEASE NOTE
Your recovery depends on several factors: age, medical condition, general level of fitness and severity of your operation.
LISTEN TO YOUR BODY TALK! If it says very tired, give it a rest. It’s not surprising to have days when you feel “crummy” when you had felt much better the day before.
Your recovery will have peaks and valleys while gradually improving.
These are some general guidelines. If they differ from what has been explained in person, please follow oral instructions.
Please call us at (509) 489-2101 with any questions or problems.
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