After Surgery

During Recovery

• If you have inpatient surgery, NCH therapists, dietitians, social workers, clergy and others will be on-site as needed
• If you are having outpatient surgery, you will need a trusted adult to stay with you for at least 24 hours to help you move about, prepare meals and get medications
• You might want to have the following foods on hand: clear liquids, soup, crackers, toast, gelatin and juice
• Your healthcare team will review written instructions with you before you go home, including advice about walking, taking deep breaths and eating
• Don’t drink alcoholic beverages for the first 24 hours after surgery
• Don’t drive while taking pain medication that makes you drowsy

Walking After Surgery

• Walking helps your blood flow and your body’s functions get back to normal
• Be sure to have someone help you the first time you get out of bed and begin walking

Eating After Surgery

• Food may be hard to digest after some types of surgery
• If you’re in the hospital, you may have an IV for nutrition
• Be sure to follow your doctor’s orders about eating and drinking

Breathing and Coughing After Surgery

• In the hospital, you may be asked to use a spirometer or deep breathing exerciser
• Deep breathing clears the lungs and helps prevent pneumonia
• You may be asked to cough; this may be difficult at first
• If you have an incision, holding a pillow over it when you cough can help

Pain Management After Surgery

• You may receive pain medication in the hospital or be sent home with a prescription
• Everyone has a different level of pain tolerance, so don’t be afraid to ask your doctor or nurse for pain medication
• Tell your doctor or nurse if you have any side effects from medication

Home Care

• Depending on the type of surgery you have, you may qualify for home health care for a few days or weeks
• Most patients are referred through their physicians. However, you may request services directly if you have difficulty leaving your home and require intermittent, skilled healthcare
• For more information, call 847-618-7800

Physical Therapy After Surgery

• Your doctor may recommend that you begin physical therapy after you have recovered from surgery
• NCH offers a complete Physical Rehabilitation Services department staffed by highly trained and licensed physical therapists and certified assistants
• They will consult with your doctor to design an individual program for you to help build up your strength and treat any possible post-surgical problems with standing, walking, range of motion, balance, coordination or endurance
• For more information on the Physical Rehabilitation Services department, call 847-618-3550
• To schedule an appointment for physical therapy, call 847-618-3700 (a physician’s order is required to schedule an appointment)