Routine Post-Operative Instructions

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How to Prepare Your Home Routine Pre-Op Instructions Routine Post-Op Instructions

Every surgeon has different instructions for what to do, and what not to do after an operation. However, there are a few instructions that are relatively constant, that you should familiarize yourself with before your surgery.

The Surgical Dressing

When your surgery is finished and the incision is sewn up, your surgeon will place a sterile dressing on the site of the surgery. This dressing is designed to stay in place for two to three days. It is important that the dressing does not stay on too long, because this interferes with the normal healing of the skin. Today, many patients are having surgery in outpatient surgical centers, and they are going home before a nurse or a doctor has the chance to remove their dressing. Make sure that you understand your doctor's instructions about when to take the dressing off, and make arrangements for someone to help you, especially if it is in a place that is difficult to reach.

Bathing After Surgery

There is nothing like an operation to make patients feel like they need a good hot shower. Unfortunately, you need to be cautious before returning to regular bathing after an operation. It is very important that you keep the wound dry for approximately five days. Two suggestions to keep your wound dry are: sponge bathing until five days have passed or covering the wound before getting into the shower.

If you are hospitalized for more than one or two days, it is very likely that a nurse will show you how to cover the dressing or wound before taking a shower. Please make sure that your specifically review your doctors instructions about how and when you should bathe after surgery. Also remember, that nearly every doctor believes that soaking in the bathtub, hot-tub, or taking a sauna for four to six weeks after an operation is a bad idea.

Wound Care

Many patients want to put antibiotic ointments, vitamin E preparations, or various home remedies on their incisions after the dressing has been removed. In general, this is not a great idea. Nature is a terrific healer, and if the wound is kept clean and dry, open to the air, and not irritated by clothing, tape, lotions, or ointments, it will usually heal fine.

Eating After Surgery

Eating a well-balanced and nutritious diet after surgery is a very important part of your recovery process. Unfortunately, most people suffer from constipation immediately after surgery. This is usually a side effect of pain medication and not eating regular meals for one to two days. In an effort to minimize the effects of constipation, try to eat meals that are rich in dietary fiber. Your doctor may prescribe a stool softener for the first several weeks after surgery. If you do use a laxative or stool softener regularly, it is a good idea to take one after surgery.

In addition to maximizing the amount of dietary fiber in your meals, it is a good idea to eat a diet that is rich in protein. Surgery is a significant stress to your system, and your body needs a good supply of protein in order to heal. It is a good idea to consult with the hospital dietician before you leave the hospital in order to get further recommendations about your diet.

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