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Oct 13 2006, 1:37 PM EDT (current) Susan_B 393 words added
Oct 13 2006, 1:35 PM EDT Susan_B

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                Post Operative Tips
                1. Talk w/your anethesiologist before surgery to let him know any concerns, fears and what to expect when you wake up. If pain or feeling sick are issues, he/she can help make this easier! It is possible to wake up feeling pretty good and able to eat afterwards!
                2. Ask for potassium in your IV bag -- [for overnight/longer stays]. This helps w/feeling dizzy after being immobilized for 24hrs; especially if you are an individual who depletes potassium easily.
                3. Before you enter hospital [even for a quick "lap"], have your house cleaned. Saves worrying about it while you are resting.
                4. Prepare a stack of things to read [or favorite craft project] and place them where you plan to spend your time once you are back home.
                5. Take plenty of naps -- does wonders for your attitude :)
                6. Develop a routine during your stay at home, even if only for a week. [showering, dressing, eating, reading mail, etc].
                7. Use your new quiet time for setting new goals to achieve in the coming months.
                8. Have all your favorite foods stocked in the pantry/fridge & place in individual serving sizes to save prep time {when possible}
                9. Prepare your favorite lounging clothes/blankets/pillows -- make sure all is clean and ready for use.
                10. Don't take phone calls immediately after surgery once you are home.
                11. Limit "surfing the net" time and time spent reading emails.
                12. Do not schedule any mtgs or other appointments during your stay at home, unless for recheck w/surgery doc.
                13. Drive when you are up to it and only for short distances at first.
                14. Have plenty of bandages, band-aids, tape & gauze on hand just in case.
                15. If you have animals, they will most likely want to jump on your stomach...learn to turn sideways quickly! [I try to tell mine what is wrong with me, etc. -- sometimes they actually listen].
                16. If you have cats, let them cuddle with you on the couch -- makes you feel better & they will like the company! Mine like to lay under the blanket and try to lay up against my stomach to make it feel better.
                17. Take a tin of organic peppermints or Altoids to the hospital; help w/nausea [peppermint tea also helps].
                18. Eat small, well-balanced meals and eat several times a day. Easier on your stomach.
                19. Watch lots of great movies while resting on the couch!


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