Did you know that doctors are not the only ones who have to be prepared before a surgical procedure? As a patient, you also have a responsibility to take action to ensure a successful procedure and your fast recovery. So, if you’re prepping for surgery, what are the things that you need to do before and after the procedure to keep yourself safe?
Pre-Surgery
Here are some of the pre-surgery measures you must keep in mind:
- Choose The Right Surgeon
Finding the right surgeon is crucial before proceeding with the actual procedure. How can you identify if you’re talking with a professional surgeon? One of the common ways is to ask them to present their license because surgeons are not allowed to practice surgery without one. Also, you can ask for the board certification of their medical specialties. Board certification is proof that they’ve gone through years of training in their specialization. Lastly, check their length of experience. If they’ve been performing the procedure you need for years, it means that they’re capable enough to ensure good outcomes for your surgery
Aside from the surgeon’s experience and credentials, you should also consider whether they have the proper tools and equipment. Do they have the latest surgical instruments and devices? Does their surgical head lamp offer consistent illumination to increase visual clarity and improve outcomes? Is the facility equipped with a backup generator to keep their devices functional? These tools, and more, will reduce the risks that you’ll face on the operating table.
- Avoid Self-Prescribed Medicines
Your surgeon needs to be informed about any medication or health supplements you’re currently taking. This is important because they’re the ones who’ll give you instructions on which medication you can and cannot take. Let them know as soon as possible to avoid causing complications during the surgery because some medications can cause preventable risks. For example, according to John Hopkins Medicine, taking aspirin before surgery increases the possibility of internal bleeding because it thins the blood.
- Avoid Shaving Or Waxing
Hospitals use specialized tools and equipment, such as special clippers for the hair on and around the surgical site. That is why they advise you not to shave or wax any body area at least one week before the surgery. According to the journal Surgical Site Infection, using a razor to shave before a surgical procedure may cause irritation and increase your likelihood of developing a skin infection.
- Eating Or Drinking Before The Surgery Is Prohibited
Your body reflexes stop when you’re under anesthesia. Anesthesia reduces the ability of your body to prevent food from entering your lungs. Surgeons suggest not eating or drinking to prevent risks and avoid complications that can happen during the surgery. These side-effects include nausea, vomiting, and aspiration. So, make sure to follow all the guidelines given by your surgeon for your safety.
Post-Surgery
Here are some of the post-surgery measures you should remember:
- Follow The Health Instructions
Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions, including what to do and what not to do. Sometimes they’ll advise you not to take a bath, avoid carrying heavy things, or stay in a bed. Regardless of how difficult these instructions may be for you, they’re essential for your healing. You shouldn’t ignore any of them until you’re completely healed.
- Complete Your Medical Appointments
Aside from following your surgeon’s instructions, attendance at follow-up appointments is mandatory. Your surgeon will personally assess your current state of health by asking you questions to help them check your progress and condition. Sometimes, they’ll require you to extend the schedule of your medical appointments until you’re completely fine.
- Drink And Eat Healthy Foods
Most invasive procedures usually take between 12 hours to 28 hours long. To regain your energy and strengthen your immune system, you must consume nutritious food and drink plenty of water if your surgeon permits you to do so. This will assist you in recovering as quickly as possible and avoiding common complications.
- Take Pain Meds
Pain is unavoidable, especially after an invasive surgical procedure. However, you can keep the pain level tolerable by taking your prescribed pain medications regularly.
Conclusions:
Preparing for surgery isn’t easy. It’s essential to have prior knowledge of what you’re allowed and not allowed to do to ensure your safety before and after the procedure. The steps mentioned above are important to remember because they’ll serve as your guide during the process. You must also be physically and emotionally prepared because any type of surgical procedure carries certain risks.
Don’t leave everything to your surgeon. Be responsible and cooperate because they’re doing the best they can to keep you safe. If you’re unsure about the things you’re doing, ask your surgeon right away.
