Having a surgery requires a lot of preparation. Some things to consider include getting anesthesia, planning for recovery, and using COVID-19 safety precautions.
Preparing for surgery
Having a surgery can be a daunting experience. But preparing for it can help ensure that your experience goes as smoothly as possible. The first step to preparing for surgery is to attend a pre-operative assessment. This is a meeting with the physician or physician’s assistant to discuss your surgery and what to expect during recovery.
During your assessment, you will have a few tests and measurements performed. You will also be asked to complete a pre-operative checklist. These tests are to gather information about your health so that the surgical team can assess your readiness for surgery.
You will also be asked to remove any jewelry or nail polish that may interfere with the operation. Your surgeon will also provide you with special tools and resources to help you prepare for the surgery.
You may also be asked to prepare a list of your current medications. You will also need to bring your driver’s license and insurance cards.
Recovery after surgery
Whether you’re preparing for a simple procedure or a major surgery, following the post-op instructions is important for your recovery. You need to take good care of your wounds and take your medication as directed by your doctor.
A nurse or other healthcare professional will be monitoring your vital signs and taking care of your wounds. They may also prescribe medications to help you feel better.
Some medications may interact with other medications you’re taking. He or she can help you avoid long-term health problems.
You may also need to modify your diet if you have an abdominal incision. Your doctor will provide you with a plan for eating and drinking, as well as activity restrictions.
If you’re having a simple surgery, your doctor may recommend a simple regimen of home exercises. These may include bending knees, drawing circles with great toes, and using a special elastic stocking.
Your doctor may also recommend using a stool softener. This can help prevent constipation. You may also be encouraged to take vitamin C and iron. This helps form new blood cells.
COVID-19 safety precautions
Having a surgery is a potentially hazardous event. Even if a patient is vaccinated, continued vigilance is warranted.
Symptoms include sore throat, body ache, loss of smell, cough, headache, shortness of breath, and nasal discharge. If a patient has any of these symptoms, he or she should be referred to their physician. If the symptoms are severe, they should go to the emergency department.
In addition, patients with COVID-19 infection may have a longer stay in the hospital and are more likely to develop postoperative complications. They also have an increased risk of ventilator use.
Early pandemic data suggested that surface contamination was a major route of viral transmission. However, contaminated surfaces are no longer thought to be the primary route of transmission.
Surgical teams have responded by developing consensus guidelines, establishing research priorities, and investigating risk mitigation strategies. These measures have led to a reduction in the risk of harm to patients and staff.
