The prospect of having surgery may be frightening for many people. The idea of being anesthetized and the fear of subsequent pain, healing and rehabilitation may cause you to feel overwhelmed. Instead of spending your time worrying, you can take action to prepare for surgery and alleviate your anxiety.
Talk With Your Family
Discuss your upcoming surgery with family and friends. Put together a support network including someone who will accompany you to the hospital, someone to drive you home and people to look after you during the immediate recovery period. If you’re having major surgery, put together a schedule of people who can take turns helping you care for yourself, shop and prepare your meals.
Prepare Your Home
After surgery, you may be incapacitated for several weeks or longer. Now is the time to finish any errands or cleaning that needs to be done. Stock the refrigerator with easy-to-prepare foods, especially if you are getting a tonsillectomy, free wisdom teeth removal surgery, or any other procedure which requires a restrictive, soft diet afterward. Pay any bills that will come due during the recovery period. Rearrange any furniture that will impede your ability to move throughout the home.
Pre-op Preparations
Donate blood for yourself if you’ll need it during or after surgery. Practice learning how to use mobility aids such as crutches or a cane. Maintain good nutrition so your body has all the necessary nutrients to properly heal. Schedule any pre-surgical blood work and other laboratory tests. Obtain supplies such as wound coverings so you won’t need to go to the store right after surgery.
Medications
Bring a list of your current medications to your pre-surgical appointment. Find out which of your medications need to be stopped prior to surgery. If you’ll need any prescriptions to help you sleep or reduce your anxiety the night before surgery, obtain those from your doctor.
Educate Yourself
Ask your surgical team about the procedure, healing, recovery and rehabilitation. Know what to expect after you come out of anesthesia. If undergoing a cosmetic procedure or wisdom teeth clinical trial, ask your doctors what the differences will be, if any, between routine treatments and the surgery you’re about to undergo. Learn about your post-operative care needs and any warning signs of complications.
Determine Insurance Benefits
To avoid any unexpected medical bills, check with your insurance company to determine your benefits for the operation and any physical therapy or rehabilitation services you’ll need afterward. Arrange payment plans with your physician and the facility.
Even minor surgery can be a major disruption to your life. Taking the time now to prepare for what’s ahead may help you gain perspective and reduce any fears or anxieties you have about the situation.
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