Preparing Your Home for Planned Surgery

There are many instances where necessary surgeries are scheduled in advance. As the patient, the advanced notice gives you time to prepare for what you may need when you return home.

Surgeries generally come with a set of instructions, yet some are vague. Prepping your home ahead of time will give you more confidence and a positive outcome.

Have you ever had those days where you feel exhausted, tired, or don't feel like making dinner? That can certainly happen when you are feeling at your best. 

Now, imagine that you have gotten home from surgery, and you need to oversee your meals. You have to take on the mental load of trying to decide what would be the healthiest option, and you also must make it and consider storage. 

Prepping meals and snacks beforehand will allow you to ease that burden. Studies have shown that having high-quality meals result in better recovery outcomes. In addition, considering your meals in advance prevents ordering out where the selection is limiting and expensive. 

Here are some suggestions to help you make healthy choices:

• Wash and chop your fruit and vegetables to eat raw or use in cooking.
• Create freezer meals that go into a pot, skillet, slow cooker or instant pot.
• Keep individual packages as a "grab and go" option.
• Make meals you enjoy while not feeling your best, like broth-based soups.
• Keep all your meals in mind including breakfast - consider overnight oats.

Particles from the outside and on our bodies are a natural part of our daily lives. These organisms end up on our clothes, towels and bed sheets. Having clean linens decrease the risk of infection. 

Also, preparing laundry allows you to have a fresh start when you return home and begin the healing process. Think about the weight of towels and bedsheets and the strength it takes to do that type of laundry. It is daunting. 

Taking advantage of the time before surgery to complete this task will be a "load" off your mind. You will be confident that you have created the best space for your care.

Here are some prep tips:

• Put laundered sheets on your bed.
• Have laundered towels and washcloths out and close to where you will be bathing.
• Have an extra set of clean linen available in case of spills or accidents.
• Have clothing that is easy to maneuver based on your surgical needs. Think athletic pants with elastic, clothing that is one size up to accommodate bandages, etc.

The coveted first shower after surgery is so rewarding. Making the first time go smoothly will make it all the better. Different surgeries will have a variety of requirements on how to achieve this. 

Will your incision need covering? Will you be able to stand for long periods? Will you need to do a sponge bath for a long duration? Here are some recommendations to keep your recovery going smoothly:

• Check your regular toiletries. Please ensure bottles are full, etc.; you can use them as your surgeon recommends.
• Have a large lightweight basin or bucket ready to use for a sponge bath in case a regular shower seems overwhelming.
• Ask your surgeon about coverings or equipment you can buy beforehand. Have them near where your grooming space will be.

Not all surgeries are created equal when it comes to getting a comfortable night's rest. Patients are sometimes told their discomfort will be tolerable at best. Having supplies for the best sleep possible will aid your comfort and healing:

• Pick a location that is convenient for a bathroom and eating space. This will encourage you to get up independently, boosting bowel health. This might be different from your typical sleeping space.
• Have your favorite relaxation items where you can find them— music, books, etc. — and close to where you will sleep.
• Acknowledge that a bed is not always a reasonable sleeping arrangement after surgery. Consider whether you have adequate alternatives (i.e., recliners or couches with ottomans).
• Prepare physical support systems to allow for an elevated surgical site. Your surgeon may recommend pillows you already own. There are also specific limb wedge pillows that are available for purchase.

Surgery is a very private and intimate thing. Many people feel vulnerable even acknowledging that they might need help. Every surgery is unique. The outcomes and how you think or feel will differ from one incident to another. 

Relying on our communities to assuage the mental load of daily living can help with healing. Some ways to help involve your family and friends:

• Have an assigned spokesperson. Anesthesia can have extended side effects. This person can send out general messages for you while you recover. 
• Consider creating a meal train or ask someone to organize one on your behalf. Having people deliver food will help ease the burden of cooking and prep. Visitors are then scheduled on your terms. It can also help with the isolation associated with surgery. 
• If you live alone, think of someone that can stay with you. Having a buddy around can make a difference. Certain surgeries have higher risks of falls and blood clots; if someone is available for you, they can reassure you or catch a problem.

Surgery of any kind can feel like a total loss of control. Remember, there are always things in your power to help with healing. Focus on those small goals to create a healthy environment for your recovery.