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When choosing a
surgeon and hospital, what are some of the
qualifications to look for?
A Board Certified surgeon assures
you that the surgeon has completed years
of training in their specialty and has demonstrated
competence by successfully completing a
rigorous exam. A hospital accredited by
the Joint Commission on Accreditation
of Healthcare Organization (JCAHO)
is a good indicator that the facility is
committed to the best possible care for
patients.
Before surgery,
what questions should I ask my surgeon when
researching new procedures?
Some examples of some good questions
to ask are:
- How many of these procedures
have you done?
- Where did you learn how to
do it?
- Have you had any problems with
it?
- Have there been any serious
complications as a result of this procedure?
- What are the risks?
- What are the benefits?
After surgery, what
can I expect when I wake up?
You may have an IV in your arm or hand.
Some patients have a small tube (catheter)
in their bladder. This is usually temporary
until you are able to go to the bathroom
on your own. You will feel unsteady on your
feet - your doctor or nurse will tell you
when to try to walk. You will need help
the 1st time out of bed.
How will my pain
be controlled?
As the anesthesia wears off the area may
hurt or burn. Please ask, if you need pain
medication. Take medication before pain
becomes severe. Some patients have PCAs
or patient controlled analgesia. This allows
them to control their own pain medication.
Changing positions can also help pain.a
nurse can help you turn or change positions.
What are some of
the benefits of keeping pain controlled?
Keeping your pain controlled can help you
recover faster. When you feel more comfortable,
it helps your body heal. In fact, you may
start walking and regain your strength sooner.
Will I feel nauseous?
Some patients feel nauseous after surgery.
Medications are available to reduce nausea,
just ask. In addition, the nurse may help
you change positions to ease this side effect.
Will I have a sore
throat?
A mild sore throat or dry mouth may be caused
by the airway tube placed in your mouth
during surgery. A nurse may offer you a
moist cloth to wet your lips or ice chips,
if allowed.
How do I care for my incision?
- Keep it clean and dry.
You will be told when it is ok to shower.
- If incision is on leg
or arm you may be told to keep it elevated.
- Wash hands before and
after touching incision.
When should I call
my doctor?
If any of the following occur, you should
contact your doctor as soon as possible:
- Signs of infection at
incision, such as redness, swelling, or
a foul odor or discharge
- Fever 101 degrees or greater
- Bleeding or if incision
opens
- Numbness
- Severe pain
- Lasting nausea and vomiting
- Any side effects from
medicine ie, redness, rash or itching
- Any problems or changes
that concern you
How can I speed up my
recovery?
- Get plenty of rest
- Ask for help
- Move around often
- Eat the right food
- Drink fluids
- Take time for yourself
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